I have two voltmeters I am attempting to rehab which have the identical problem. One is the Simpson 260 series 5, and the other is an Eico 565. In both cases the only way I can get a positive deflection of the needle is in the highest range settings, and even then it doesn't zero out. It will only go about 2/3 to 3/4 scale, Rx1 and Rx10 both deflect negative when the leads are crossed. All batteries (4-AA and 1-D cell, both cases) are new. Ohm-ed the leads out and swapped them with another set. Though I now not associated I did read 3 different DC voltages and two AC voltages with both meters, successfully. One meter doing this is enough to drive me to distraction, but two!?!? Coincidentally, I got both meters from the same guy at the same time. Is there any chance, do you think, that he may have screwed up two times with each meter by checking a voltage of sufficient level to cause both problems? Also, a physical inspection of both meters along with a sniff test lead to no indication of anything having smoked. So all you Batmen out there, "Riddle me this"? 
