I just ordered my new IC-7000 (not here yet). I did not order an automatic tuner since I already have a manual tuner MFJ-941E to use at home. I do not see anywhere in the manual a safe procedure for tuning manually with this radio. I assume I can go to cw mode, back off power and tune like I did with my older transmitters. Or can I use this "tune" button to help out even though an automatic tuner is not connected? Thanks.
Put the rig in the AM mode and lower the power and tune your antenna that way. One thing you would find very helpful is to make a chart with your manual tuner settings on it. That way you can change bands, use the chart to get the tuner very close to the proper settings. Then a quick AM carrier allows you to fine tune the tuner.