Why do you say that it looks like the relay is fine? Have you tested
its contacts? Have you looked at its contacts? Just because it goes
kachunk doesn't mean it is doing its job. Every symptom you have described
is classic for T/R relay contact problems.

Hi Chuck,

I guess I should have been more specific...I pulled the relay.

I had pulled the relay and looked at it ( it's new as the tr4c was newly
rebuilt when I rec'd it ). took a few readings and all was ok without
power of course.

Anyway, I re-pulled the relay (thank goodness for sockets) and poped off
the plastic cover...
Using an old elmer trick for keys, I used a strip of a dollar bill and
some alcohol. After doing all the contacts, put back in.

Well, you were right! I just got done testing it and it looks good for
now... time will tell... no more problem after 15mins or so.

Thanks agn

best holidays,
Tom