Picture seems very faded on tv it is approx 9 years old do they have main bulbs that can be replaced when picture starts to look washed out

Could be an issue with the lamp ballast causing intermittent operation.

I would say that it is not worth replacing the bulbs. I had a similar experience with an old rear projection TV like that and I just cleaned all the dust out of it as well as I could. i cleaned the back of the screen, the mirror that the image reflects off of, and the bulbs themselves. I used a dry micro fiber cloth so as not to scratch anything. doing this might help you some, but if it is working and it is bright enough for you after a few minutes, I would just live with it until you can upgrade to a newer TV.

When was the last time u replaced the projection bulb,yes it could be that simple the projection bulb it dead.The bulb last only about 1 or 2 years,by using the tv on about 4 or 5 hours a day.

Hmm my dad's old t.v. just cut out on him it took awile to turn on this my be the end of ur tv so this might be a power problem but older t.v. loose there colour on the screen my uncle had a like 10-15 year old t.v the screen was like green when it was light but when u turned of the light or closed the blind's it's picture was ok so try that.

light engine will be the problem

YES, THE CRTS WILL START SHOWING THEIR SIGNS OF WEAR. TO REPLACE THEM IS MORE THAN YOU PAID FOR THE SET.

if it is a tube type unit you may not find a new tube they are almost extinct ,
also, most tube malfunctions are caused by improper voltage, only a qualified tech should work on the high voltage section of a tube tv,,, it can kill you even if it has Not Been Plugged in for a whole year

re-post with the make and model number for further assistance

Hi tourblack

I wouldn't think that this is a lamp issue , as the lamp will make the picture fade away in brightness and wouldn't look white washed.

Check if the brightness is set to 50% and the contrast on 50% as well.

This could be a colourwheel that is in need of replacement.

The bulbs for this TV seem to go about every couple years. The price has dropped down a bit. I have found it for 118.00.

u are have a horizontal problem. seek pros help