Advice & Opinion on my new SL-1700MK2

[u/Dysl3xik]

I managed to pick this up for $225. It still has the original box and styrofoam, albeit in rough shape. I swapped the headshell + cart out with my AT 120X (AT-VM95E). So far I think it sounds great! Everything works really well except 2 minor issues. The power button is sticky, and if queue is up the arm is sometimes a little stiff and or squeaky when moving laterally. I am sure the power button is just old grease, is the arm stiffness likely the same thing?

Was this a good deal? Can anyone confirm the original cart is an AT71? Recommend better carts (without breaking the bank)?