Hi!

Alternative 3-terminal linear regs will still dissipate the same
amount of heat regardless of their current capability.

Okay...if you don't mind my asking, why is that the case? It would
seem to me that a more capable part asked to do the same work as a
less capable part would have an easier time of it.

If the problem is in the load (i.e. faulty components) then that
should be where you focus your attention.

There does not appear to be any problem with anything that is powered
by the regulator's output (though I do have some suspicious caps to
replace elsewhere).

William