Galaxy DX88HL RFX75 Tech question

I have a Galaxy DX88HL with the RFX75 transistor mod in it. Low side I have a DK of about 3W and it swings to 40W. High side I DK 12W and swing 40W. I've heard that the RFX75 will safely do about 70W and my low swing raises questions in my mind about the install / tuning.

Recently I obtained a copy of the RFX75 install instructions. I cracked open the radio to verify that the install was proper. Everything looks clean and proper according to the install instructions except for one thing: J30 was never removed. Radio operation is fine [except for one thing which I will also ask shortly] on all bands and nothing seems to be a miss [except for later question]. I was wondering if the lack of the J30 removal may have an effect on my x-mit peak power. I don't wish to send it off if the removal of J30 would be the cure.

Things to note:
1) audio hasn't been cut; however, VR14 (AM Modulation) has been cranked wide open. (would this restrict my peak if the audio has not been cut even though VR14 is wide open?)

2) using an Astatic noise canceling mic, non-power mic and Mic gain at 100%

The other question if you all would be so kind to help me with is this:

Like I said my radio seems to function properly [except for the EFX75]; however, when I'm on 11 meter on channels 33-40 I am not receiving properly, but when I press on the channel selector or jiggle it, I can hear properly. I've had my watt meter on it and when I key up on these channels my wattage is lower than normal until i jiggle it into the same position as to when I receive properly. The channel selector does seem to be a bit loose to the touch as well. All of the other channels operate fine though.

Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

According to my meter (Astatic 700) I'm pegging right at the 100% modulation mark.