(This is my first post and wasn't sure if this is the correct forum)

I recently decided to get back into using my models after a long hiatus away from them because of a certain world event, and when I got some of my supplies I grabbed my old Tyco 899BP. For me its an ole reliable option and I didn't have space for EZ track and a Bachmann controller. The “modification” part of the title comes in now as I want to keep the abilities that the 899BP has, but refine its control more. It uses a simplified slot car controller style wiper setup and its a bit clunky and has a lot of play until the wiper makes contact with the wire. Was thinking of switching out the lever setup with a normal potentiometer knob so it can be both more linear and has less play. The only reason I’m not buying a whole new controller is because I don't have the money as of now and I don’t wanna get a more hobby grade DC controller just to do test runs on an oval. Any suggestions, directions, criticisms and thoughts are welcome. Any questions I’ll try to answer when I can.