The major problem with mfj products is that quality control is virtually non-existent. Hardware will be missing from one unit and then extra hardware (probably that intended for the previous unit down the production line) will be "rattling" around the next unit. Some solder connections will be poorly done and other connections have never even thought of having solder applied. The list of "problems" goes on.
I believe that mfj is VERY aware of these problems because in their warranty they specifically state that repairs made by the owner will NOT violate the warranty.
I always consider mfj products to be a "semi-kit". That is a unit partially assembled by the factory but definitely needing further attention by the person who purchases the unit.
Over the years I have acquired a number of mfj products, almost always from someone who purchased the unit expecting it to work "out of the box". When the unit does not work then that person often sells it or trades it. I have bought a few items "new" and every one of those items had to have something done to make them work correctly except for one item that worked correctly from the "get go". That item was a 24 hour clock that was built "off shore" and an mfj label added.
Glen, K9STH
Website: http://k9sth.com