Sony STR D390 delay turn on one channel, easy fix?

My neighbor is the original owner (>20yrs) and recently noticed brief delay (2-3 sec) starting on one channel when first turned on. Frequently turning on the volume higher seems to cure the problem during (silent period). Once working sound seems fine even when the volume knob is near mute. During brief delay sometime brief static is also audible. There is no obvious static when working with volume knob. Is there a possible simple fix for this?
 
I would start by replacing the speaker protection relay, which is a very common failure item on receivers of this age. Symptoms are exactly as you describe.
Sometimes the relay contacts can be cleaned by removing it from the board, taking off the plastic cover and gently scraping the contacts with a small blade. Finish up with some good contact cleaner like Deoxit.
Other relays are sealed so this is not possible.
Get the service manual, which usually can be found online, to be sure you ID the right relay.
 
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