Thanks of your input. Taking a root-cause-analysis approach I started with the light build box and found that inside of it the power plug receptacle had blown black gunk out of the vent hole in the bottom this was why it would start up without the light bulb device but with the lightbulb in series it was limiting the power available to start up properly. Using your suggestion I found that the main power relay continued 'chattering' after the amp off power switch was replaced so that is the next replacement but probably also indicating that there is some ghost voltage flowing to the relay, perhaps the diode across the relay may also be faulty, will replace for good measure.