Hi Alain...
Thanks for the response...
Unfortunately I did try changing the xtal osc feedback caps...
27pF down to 18pF... no luck...
I tried the HS setting for the CONFIG1H register as well ... no luck...
also using the HS setting in the meLabs serial programmer...

I borrowed a better O'scope...
It looks as if it's trying to start, at initial power up... but dies away..

If you have any other ideas or resources to research.. I open...

Dave