Noah, thanks for the tip, and I'll try the WD-40 diagnostic procedure. Sounds like we have had similar symptoms, and I've already burned up enough of my life trying to sort this out. Did you post anything about actually replacing the ALDA? I couldn't find anything after your post re: how to remove the IP.

I'm in Virginia, and though your offer to come help is amazingly kind, I think it would be a little far.

Hope your back is better too--been there myself to a lesser degree (so far), and it ain't no fun.