New guy, new to hobby, looking to find out what's wrong with my set

[tom.j.fla]

Well blowing the dirt out most likely did help. As for ? 1) yes info is available SAMS photofact #1156-3, for $22.00 at www.samswebsite.com will be in pdf format. #2) I would defer to someone knowlageable about TV's but under watchful eye maybe. #3) See #1 and yes there are lots of books out there, check you local library. The informatiom you needed is on the tube chart on the side of case. The tv is a transformer less design so be very careful. A few more pics of the chassis would be helpful. Afew shots from the high voltage transfomer will helpalso check around where the big wire goes to the picture tube not coated with gonk if that area is nasty high voltage will arkover and make a hissing noise. Hope this helps. All the best,Tom