Well ....the results are in.
Getting the tv out wasn't hard at all. Awkward...but not hard. It does take three people tho. Two to lift the unit out while the third unplugs everything.
The best news. The wife found a repair shop that could (and would) fix the tv. AND For less the $75. Apparently one of the solder points that is done at the factory is especially weak. If your unit has sound but loses the picture. That is what the problem is. Contact Ashland TV in Ashland,VA (804-752-4644). They will take care of you. Joe at Ashland TV told us that once this problem is fixed, these tvs will last like any other tube type unit.
Now all I have to do is put it back!! Yeah!!