Gladiator NXT EVOs, Left Stick calibration not recognizing Z-Axis

[Blahofstars]

I have 2 NXT EVO sticks which I'm trying to set up after moving (and not using for over a year). I decided to flash the firmware and following the instructions with the device config (Load up -> Default, 'Yes' to setup, calibrate). My right stick calibrated fine, but my left stick fails to recognize the Z-Axis. I checked the connections under the base and everything seems to be in order. The stick lights up and the blue light between F1 and F3 is blinking (I'm assuming this is signaling calibration needed? My right stick stopped blinking after calibration).


A google search showed up a few other instances of this issue but no clear resolution. I've tried reflashing the firmware 3 times now.

[Delta]

Do the buttons on the grip work? If not, it could be a sign of an unreliable connection between base and grip.