This evening I went to check Vstart for any oscillation. However, all of a
sudden, the current draw is down to 85mA and PWM has started working. I am
at a loss to explain it. I wondered if there might be a dry joint, but I
have tried a few light taps and shakes and it continues to work. Perhaps
your idea of some debris causing a short might explain it, otherwise I just
don't know.
This one is a real doozie :-(
I am thinking I may put it back together and test with a light bulb in series.
Go for it. I can't think of anything else to suggest trying at the moment.
Regards
Peter.