Diagnose Repair of Toshiba Model 57H81 53" HD Projection TV?

After 3.5 years the screen on the rear projection TV went Black. I've verified that power is available as a red light is on one of the circuit boards. There is a faint horizontal red line running through the middle of the screen. There is a crackling noise when plugged in after being unplugged for 20 minutes. The TV is connected to a home theater set up and I have sound and can change channels (I have Direct TV's DV-15 satellite receiver). Is there any common performance issue with this model? I am dreading seeking repair of this $2900 unit. Your thoughts are appreciated.