Hi,
You could be right about the problem being the inverter or the
CCLF lamp, it could also be as simple as a loose cable by what you are describing in your post. If it is the
CCLF lamp then you would be better off
purchasing a new screen as the labour cost can amount to more than a new screen itself. If its the inverter then it could just need soldering to re-float the solder around the coil.
Seeing as you don't feel comfortable making/troubleshooting the problem yourself then I
recommend that you click on the link below and give
BnyTech Inc a call and see what they can do for you and at what cost. Link below >>>>
http://www.bnytech.com/They are based in the "New Yorker" building NY
Good luck.