I think yes there is a chance to check:
- Remove the cup spring (p.nr. 367) of the rear joint
(Is there a groove in the frame? Can you take a close picture of it?) - Break the sharp edge along the outer circumference of the cup spring with sandpaper
- Put a little bit lube below and reinstall the cup spring.
Crackling totally gone - it is the rear joint and you need a rear hinge kit.
Crackling still present - most likely is the KS3 damaged.
No, the KS3 can’t be serviced locally by a store.
I’d say if it’s a really good store - then it should have one or two replacement drives in stock.
Maybe even more than that - if your local store has a replacement on hand for you then it has to be called excellent!
For example are such drives in stock in Germany definitely at the main distributor.
Theoretically it shouldn’t be a problem for any local dealer to order from the main distributor.
Just, in reality, are things often very different…
I really hope that the European distributors work together in delicate cases - but honestly I can not confirm.