I got a 1976 Saba Ultracolor T8717 "Micromatic L" today. It´s a "instant on"-set, but fortunately the last owner knew about the bad effect of that feature and always pulled the plug when the set was not in use. The set had not been plugged in for 10-15 years. When i turn it on, the sound comes immediately, but the screen only shows a horizontal pink line. If i leave the set on the line grows bigger until the picture fills (almost) the whole screen. The v-hold uses almost 15 minutes to get stabilized, so obviously some resistors (in the vertical amp?) in this set has drifted like hell. The picture never gets really good. The screen is a bit dim and the upper 1/3 of the picture is stretched vertically and out of focus. I guess the electrolytic caps is causing this problem (any other suggestions?). The set has no main transformer, the 220 volt line is connected directly to the circuit board. The cabinet is in very good shape, only needs some light cleaning. I hope to get it in good working condition again.

It definitely sounds like some bad electrolytics to me. They often get better as they warm up.

They often get better as they warm up.
Me too! :D