29 LTD Classic RF gain issue

The meter on receive will stay on S9 even on my dummy load with the RF gain turned down. The RF gain will drop the incoming noise level, but the meter doesn't move. Adjusting VR2 will change the meter, but the RF gain does not have any effect.
My thought on this is that the RF gain potentiometer is working as it should so the issue will be on the board. My guess would be either D5 or C29 has crapped out.

Any thoughts? Thanks guys.