thanks for all the responses! I had just found this site yesterday and posted my cupholder query without having explored the site much. Great group.
Today I removed my cupholders and gave them a cleaning. The whole pop-out thing works like a charm now. I agree that it is fund just to have them slide out and in. So much so that it is tempting to actually try and use them despite the risk to the radio. Don't think I will though. I am working on a new solution that may save me the trouble and expense of the holders from ebay.
Haven't had a chance to put my experient to the test yet. If it seems to work, I'll take a photo as it would be hard to explain otherwise. In the meantime, I am enjoying reading the posts.
Diana