Used FOMM AI utility which doesn't work (for me that is) and archive invalidation invalidated
which was also a no go.

What method has the most success? Should I delete my .ini's and start over?

When you tried Archive Invalidation Invalidated, did you remember to:
1.) rename ArchiveInvalidationInvalidated!.bsa to Fallout - AII.bsa (those are i's: aii)
2.) add it to all 3 ini files:
MyDocuments/MyGames/FalloutNV/Fallout.ini
Fallout_Default.ini and FalloutPrefs.ini in the games /Data/ folder

I don't know why the renaming is necessary, I've just heard that it is.

Also make sure the name of the AII.BSA (that's two i's not L's) have the same name in your INI file.