Canon PC850 fixer problem?

I replaced the toner cartridge and the first time I fired it up I heard an electric arc sound. It was the fixer film torn and arcing against the heater which has left burn marks on it. I replaced the film and now the machine displays [adj] and makes a click click clicking sound. I have priced the fixer as the heater alone is unavailable (from anyone I can find) and am reluctant to purchase as I need verification that this is the problem and has not compounded. I don't want to give up on the machine as it always worked well though the price of new stuff these days almost precludes repairing anything.