I don't think anything is dragging down the voltage as i tried with only J101 connected.

I've had a look and pin 1 of J101 does look a bit dull compared to the others - the plug is fine as its working with the other board - but i might replace the header pins.

Its about 15 degrees here and  too cold for this girly queenslander to head out tonight to the shed and try it in the machine, and i've got some serious renovations to get into over the weekend - will prob check back in, later on the weekend.

Thanks very much for the assistance so far

On a good note - the boards Ken repaired for me (sound, display and CPU) are all working sweet - thanks mate!