Newbie Coiler has NST questions

["Tesla list" <tesla-at-pupman-dot-com>]

Original poster: "Patrick Bloofon by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <transactoid-at-home-dot-com>

I have yet to build my first TC, as I've been reading a lot and still gathering
materials.
 
Today, I managed to obtain TWELVE (!!!) *supposedly* broken NSTs. The very
first one I tested worked. So I have some questions:
 
First, proper grounding methods. I simply connected the ground wire to the
chasis; is there a "proper" place where it should be connected? 
 
Secondly, what guage wire should I use for wiring these things?
 
Thirdly, what safety precautions should I take when using an NST? I placed it
ontop of a rubbermaid bin, and plugged it in from about 25 feet away :) I think
I was being a little too cautious..... :)
 
I doubt all 12 will turn out like this first one. What are some good sites with
details on repairing NSTs? I've read a few sites, and they say it's fairly
easy.
 
Phew! One more! I will be using a 15kv 30ma unit......kind of an open ended
question, but knowing this, what is the "best design" for my coil? (ie,
secondary length/width, wire guage, # of turns, primary details, caps, etc.)
 
Thanks a lot! I'm really excited about getting this coil going
 
Patrick.