[old_tv_nut]

Measuring the DC at the HO plate, even with a high voltage probe, is useless.

If you have service info that tells what the retrace time should be, you can compare that to the actual pulse width, using a scope. Just bring the probe somewhat near the HO plate lead, but not close enough to touch or draw an arc, and view the capacitively coupled pulse. If the pulse width is notably different from nominal, this could affect the HV. This would lead to checking components around the flyback and yoke.