Yes there is a small spring that must have a little tension on it for the needle to return to zero. Take it back apart and u will see the spring. When put together correctly it will return to zero in your hand before reinstalling. You just put it back together without putting that little tension on the spring first. An easy fix. I am working on mine also but did not get lucky freeing up the part that spins. Mine is also too tight and breaks the cable. There is a little cap with a wick that u oil right above that shaft. I may end up having to buy a new one-ouch! $$

'52 3100 "once a Marine, always a Marine!!