Pioneer SD P5071 rear projection/ dark picture

I have this beautiful tv, though, the picture is very dark. The OSD and convergence lines are all dark also. Simply put, it's seems as though the brightness levels are turned way down. I can view the picture if the room is not lit up, and then from a very particular setting in front of the unit. It is just very dark. My sound, menu, all else seems to be fine, allbeit, dark. I called a repairman, he said $289 to clean it, (over the phone), if that doesn't work "not to worry, been at her a long time, I'll getter' tuned up, by the way, I don't take credit cards, checks or money orders. So,... why don't ya' just get on down to the bank, then gimme' a call!", for some reason I was a little skeptical. Please review my info and forward any advise. Thanks, Jim