The cable's keeping tension, the cable was replaced this winter (I could look up the mileage, but it's definitely under 1200), and IAE it's the small chainring it won't shift into, not the large one. There's adequate slack in the cable when I try to downshift, so it's not the cable hanging up someplace.
I don't know what you'd consider "severe." The cage is moving enough to rub against the chain, if that's what you mean. But not shifting is "severe" enough for me. 
I really can't imagine the low limit screw would have moved on its own. Last time it was definitely the derailleur alignment - I don't know how it moved on its own or why it moved counterclockwise rather than down, but it did. So I'm guessing that's what it is again. Will check it in the gear combo you recommend as soon as it stops raining and I can go out to the garage where there's some light.
But I'd like to get it solved.
Last edited by OakLeaf; 05-01-2009 at 04:29 AM.
Speed comes from what you put behind you. - Judi Ketteler