Tuning a spark gap TC

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Original poster: "Jeremy D. Gassmann by way of Terry Fritz <teslalist-at-qwest-dot-net>" <gassmajd-at-email.uc.edu>

Hi group,
         I have seen posts that recommend tuning a TC at about 30% max 
power before turning it up all of the way to avoid damaging components that 
may be out of tune.  I agree with this methodology, but my question is, 
should you adjust the spark gap spacing so that it will arc at the new 
voltage?  For my 15 kV system that would be about 4500 volts.  Not 
adjusting the spark gap would the capacitor ever charge up enough to short 
out the spark gap.  If it didn't, the primary would resonate at 60 Hz 
right?  I am probably missing something here, so I thought I would ask.
         If anyone has any best practices or tried and true methods of 
tuning that they feel like mentioning as well as some pitfalls to avoid 
that would be much appreciated.  Thanks everyone in advance for your help!



Jeremy Gassmann
Cincinnati, Oh
http://jeremyee.tripod-dot-com