Re: Why the TCBOR gap?

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

Original poster: "Barton B. Anderson by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>" <tesla123-at-pacbell-dot-net>

Hi Jim,

I don't fall into the ranks of those that think the TCBOR gap is a poor
performer. I
find my gap to be good performer. Granted, for high power, I run my
rotarys, but when it
comes to plug n' play, I'll take the TCBOR style gaps over conventional
static gaps.

I personally don't like using copper segments for the electrodes due to
wear and tear
from previous gap routines, so I varied the design a little by using copper
segments
only as adjustment supports and cooling fins, and mounted tungsten rod for
the actual
electrodes (because their on studs, I can adjust each gap as desired).
Here's a photo:

Inside
http://www.classictesla-dot-com/photos/tgk/302.jpg

Outside
http://www.classictesla-dot-com/photos/tgk/tgk91.jpg

Dont' be fooled by the wide spacing (this photo was from running a JT
zero-crossing
circuit). I have run the gap at moderate power levels (~ 80") and it's
performed
flawlessly, however, I don't do long runs (my wife won't let me) and can't
comment on
performance over time.

Take care,
Bart

Tesla list wrote:

> Original poster: "by way of Terry Fritz <twftesla-at-qwest-dot-net>"
<jim-at-jlproduction-dot-com>
>
> Hi all,
> I am just curious to know why so many people use the TCBOR type gap if
> they are reportedly so poor in performance?
> Certainly it cannot be ease of construction as I spent as much or more
> time on that than anything else. Couple that with poor performance and I
> wonder why do so many recommend them? This seemed to be the first and
> only area that all you fellow coilers suggested I eliminate to get
> better sparks/arcs.
> My plan today is to eliminate all but 2 or 3 or my 6 gap set up and see
> what happens. If this is unwise, or a superior modification is popular,
> then by all means do tell :)
> Thanks,
> Jim