Hi guys
Oh dear... This is turning into a nightmare isn't it.
You have done such great work on the cabinet too.
Ok, I will try to help here too.
You mention this
So I am assuming that the red line going to the H.O.T at Q902 is not supposed to be grounded.
Can you be more specific about where you are testing this.
Looking at the schematic. I can see that the collector of the H.O.T is linked to the top pin of the LOPT (7)
Line OutPut Transformer (sorry UK terminology may differ from US, I think you refer to it as a Flyback)
Is it this that is short to gnd. if so then remove the H.O.T (or just clear the collector from the print) and check again.
There is another trick of the trade here that I will share, that is that you can test the entire PS and regulator by replacing the H.O.T with a domestic light bulb (60W ish)
across collector - emitter (transistor out of course) Pin 7 of LOPT to Gnd
Another useful bit of test gear LOL 60W domestic bulb soldered to leads with crocodile clips on. Ideas from my TV servicing days.
I should start to charge for all these useful bits of info

With the bulb connected, it should light and you should be able to measure the correct +B volts across it, the +B should be fully adjustable using the +B pot (VR601)
I can't see what the +B should be set to, but normally in a monitor such as this, I would expect around 105V to 115V ish.
EDIT
After looking at the capacitor voltages on the +B line I think it will be more like 80 - 90V since caps appear to rated at only 100V
If the line is still short to ground with the Collector of the H.O.T isolated and no lamp connected then I will try to guide you further, we will need to isolate parts of the circuit further
You will need the monitor out now, and on the bench in a usable position (access to both sides of the main board) Don't worry connections to the main board
at this point, it should power up on its own at least to a blank raster.
Pete