First please update to Firefox 17.0.1. Update Firefox to the latest release. Then test again

Done. Still auto alpha lock when tested.

clicked on open bookmarks to confirm sort order set to unsorted as well.

Where are you doing the sorting?

Is that in the Library (Bookmarks Manager)?

Start Firefox in Safe Mode to check if one of the extensions (Firefox/Tools > Add-ons > Extensions) or if hardware acceleration is causing the problem (switch to the DEFAULT theme: Firefox/Tools > Add-ons > Appearance).

• Do not click the Reset button on the Safe mode start window or otherwise make changes.

• https://support.mozilla.org/kb/Safe+Mode

Problems with bookmarks and history not working properly can be caused by a corrupted places.sqlite database file.

You can check for problems with the places.sqlite database file in the Firefox Profile Folder.

• http://kb.mozillazine.org/Bookmarks_history_and_toolbar_buttons_not_working_-_Firefox
• https://support.mozilla.org/kb/Bookmarks+not+saved#w_fix-the-bookmarks-file

doing sorting in change view second drop down menu under open bookmarks

All set. Back in business :-)

It was the "sort bookmarks" add-on, which I'd just installed when the problem started. Funny how soon we forget these things.

Switched to safe mode and "sort bookmarks" was first add-on I tested. Problem solved.

Many thanks, btw.