I replaced quite a few out of tolerance resistors in the vertical section and in the HO drive section that were producing size irregularities. A new RF tube cleared up the snow a bit and some horiz osc and phase adjustments stopped the tearing. Touched up the tuner oscillator and Local channel oscillators and got the tuner working right.
However the problem that remained was
snow. The amount was the same regardless of signal input. I was pulling my hair out trying to figure out if the tuner or AGC was at fault because I
thought the IF strip was fine.
When I started poking around the IF strip I discovered that the video carrier signal was very weak --next to nothing. I replaced some bad resistors in the last IF stage and touched up the 26mhz slug responsible for the video carrier signal to the detector. I adjusted for maximum signal without overloading.
I watched the set for a good hour or more before i put it back in the chassis. For now, its done! It has a great picture and clear sound. I am very happy with the outcome --especially since its been over a YEAR since I got the set.
Thanks to all who helped me on this set, Especially Kirk. I don't know how far this would have gotten without your knowledge of these sets, not to mention the wealth of paperwork and service literature you so kindly sent me.
The pictures speak for themselves! Taken off air with nothing but a piece of 24" wire.