[PredictaNoob]

I did want to report that I have definately decided to pull the main board. I replaced 4 caps last night in and around the audio section, since they appeared to be 'low hanging fruit". But even these fairly accessible caps weren't "a snap".
I won't actually pull the board, just "loosen it up", meaning I'll free it from the grounding stakes, but leave the wires connected. I calculate that I'll be able to lift the board about 5-6 inches away from the chassis. That should allow me easier access to most everything.

BTW, I finally found some solder braid at a different hardware store yesterday, yippee! They even had the HCL I was needing to etch some PCBs I'm building, and the water-soluble temporary spray adhesive for neat decal -pressure transfer system I'm putting together (for the control text on the back of this cabinet, as well as a good looking substitution for the silk-screened, reverse painted dial scale which is broken from my 1936 Blaupunkt KW741!)

On a related topic, I see that the previous repairman did not concern himself with lead dress. The Philco Service Manual dedicated an entire page to lead dress, so I suppose it is important enough to follow thier recommendations. I'll re-do the ones that are suspect.

I do see why people recommend NOT choosing a Predicta for you first tv restoration. I am having a blast though, and suprising enough, my wife remains positive about the whole project.
So, for today: Life, 'tis good!