1956 Packard Bell 21DK1 with raster but no picture

[TheShanMan]

I just joined the community. See my intro forum post for a little more detail if you wish. I got a 1956 Packard Bell TV/radio/turntable, model 21DK1 (I believe the "21" indicates the CRT size) with a 98D1 chassis.

Aside from the fact that I'm sure it needs recapping, the tuner is making poor connection (have to jiggle it around to tune the vcr signal), and while I get raster, I don't get an actual picture from the signal, just a completely white screen. The radio works great though. The turntable appears to work electronically (needle is active) but mechanically it does not. I'm not overly concerned about getting the turntable working, but of course I'd like to get the whole unit in tip top shape.

I've purchased the photofact for it as well as "TV Servicing Guide" and "How to Troubleshoot a TV Receiver" books from that era - just waiting for them to arrive now. Of course I've also been researching quite a bit which led me to these forums, among quite a few other resources.

Any advice on getting started on this in general or on the picture problem in particular? I do have some background in working on CRT technology because I've been in the classic arcade collecting hobby for years and particularly enjoy repairing the monitors. Of course that means I've never worked with tuners, nor have I dealt with a hot chassis before, as I believe this one is. I haven't looked in detail into the process of recapping vintage TV's but I'm guessing I won't find ready made "cap kits" which are common in the arcade hobby. I'm guessing I'll have to take inventory of what I have from examining the chassis and the schematics.

Anyway, I'll shut up now and hope that some of you will be able to ensure I get off on the right foot here. Thanks all!