T42 Failing Red Screen

[Gori]

Dug up my old T42 which I hope to turn into a backup server. After booting I get a completly red in hue IBM splash screen, a password prompt then the screens dies shortly after; no signal when contected to an external monitor. I see that T42 displays can be picked up cheaply on eBay but I don't want go that route without first checking that it's a problem with the actual display, and not the gpu, inverter etc.

[RealBlackStuff]

A red screen is usually a near-dead CCFL (backlight tube).
If you have the patience and experience, check how to exchange it here: http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?f=31&t=88991
When you connect an external monitor, try pressing Fn/F7 a few times, any better?
If you forgot your password: https://support.lenovo.com/us/en/documents/ht036206

[Gori]

Much appreciated RBS.
I had a look at your CCFL replacement guide which seems to be very thorough but unfortunately its beyond my skill set.
Fn/F7 didn't enable a connection to an external monitor.

If I were to purchase a replacement display, I assume that the CCFL is included?
Does that fact that I can't get a connection to an external monitor point to some other issue?

[RealBlackStuff]

The CCFL is part of the LCD innards, so a replacement LCD includes one.
Remove both memory modules, then try to switch on.
If it beeps 1-3-3-1, then there is still life in the mobo.
If no beeps, look for another mobo as well, if you insist on reviving that oldie.
For hardware info, get the T42 manual via the HMM link at the top of this page.