I'd forgotten all about the pick-up coil. Now I remember watching this Johnny Cactus video on it.

https://www.bing.com/videos/search?q=200...8&FORM=VIRE

I wish I still had the patience to follow through on this kind of stuff. Unfortunately, I don't have the time, workspace or temperament anymore. I do appreciate the information folks! I'll report back once the mechanic has a look. I just hope that at $78/hour, he comes up with the right diagnosis quickly.