Hi irhunter,
The problem is simple to correct. If you wish to end your frustrations of every time you disconnect the cars battery then send the radio to me and we will install a new battery and power supply capacitors. I would suggest however that a full rebuild would be the better way to go since there are parts, especially the cassette section, that need to be replaced. We have the decoder device needed to reset your radio so no dealer is needed. If you wish more info. please contact me directly at: www.lajollaaudiorepair.com
c/o La Jolla Audio Repair.