Power output loss

["Tesla list" <tesla@xxxxxxxxxx>]

Original poster: otmaskin5@xxxxxxx 

I could use some advice.  Recently, I'getting a significant drop in 
output as I dial up the variac.  I start getting sparks at the 80v 
setting, as usual.  But then, as I increase the variac voltage, the 
coil doesn't increase spark output proportionately as it used 
to.  Might even decrease at higher variac settings ~120-130v.

I'm running a 15/60 powered RQ type static gap coil with a 0.03uF 
Maxwell pulse capacitor.
The RQ is set at 6 gaps X 0.03" each for a total gap spacing of 0.18" 
which seems conservative.

Went back & verified all connections are tight & no wires near each 
other or near anything.  Couldn't find any signs of arcing or 
shorts.  NST checks out OK - both legs.

The only thing I could find was some scorching on the safety gap - 
both the left & right terminals & grounded teminal.  I've never 
observed the safety gap firing, but it's location makes it a little 
hard to see. Plus it's near the spark gap which I try to avoid 
looking at.  (I've thought of putting colored glass/plastic over the 
safety gap to make firing more noticeable without looking directly at 
the lower deck).

Anyway, I set the safety gap to the first adjustment point where they 
wouldn't fire with just the NST connected.

Maybe corona causing premature firing?  I'm kind of stumped.  Any 
ideas would be appreciated.  Thx

Dennis Hopkinton, MA