I went into the PTU to test why the shields weren't working, thinking maybe the new laser was drawing too much power. Much more money to work with there, so can throw money at the problem without worring about running out. They started as soon as I turned on the ship, like they should. So, I went into the PU and loaded the ship.... no shields. So I tried your suggestion on cycling power to the shield as well as playing with the shield balance. At some point I clicked the right button and the shields turned on.
Of course I finally get this working on my "Monday". My alergies are kicking my ass right now, so not sure if I will go in and be miserable with my alergies in a cleanroom or just call out.