Hi,
So to close this out, the LBS where I bought the bike in '06 ordered me a replacement wheel-- generic hub, ZAC19 rim, and sold it to me at cost..and switched over the cassette, disc rotor, tire, and tube to the new wheel. Upon installation, I had to recenter the disc caliper, but the derailleur adjustment (shifting/limit screws) were fine. The wheel is 36 spokes, replacing a 32 spoke wheel.

It rides just fine... first 25 feet I got some spoke "pinging", but it has been silent since then. Trueness seems to be fine.
So, I am happy with the new wheel...and I still may rebuild the old one with a new rim and spokes, even if just for the educational value.

Pete

PS. -- Wanderer... just having rims called "Adventurer" would make me want to ride even more....ZAC19 is "boring"!!