Power Transformer - Am I Doing Something Stupid?

[CraigGa]

So my replacement transformer is back in my chassis and everything is looking good so thanks everyone for confirming that the transformer was at fault not me!

On a side note,
During the transformer saga I ended up with a spare power transformer with a 100-120-230-240V primary.
Would it be feasible to use this as an auto transformer to give me a lower supply voltage (I'm in the UK on 240V) to feed my PT for the initial amp power up when I get that far?
I'd still be using the light bulb limiter of course.

Thanks
Craig

[martin manning]

Would it be feasible to use this as an auto transformer to give me a lower supply voltage (I'm in the UK on 240V) to feed my PT for the initial amp power up when I get that far?

Yes, you'd basically have half voltage available, which would let you bring your capacitors up to working voltage in two steps.

[CraigGa]

Yes, you'd basically have half voltage available, which would let you bring your capacitors up to working voltage in two steps.

Thanks Martin,
That's what I was thinking but will I actually get any B+ with only half voltage on my rectifier heater?
If not could I leave the rectifier tube out and bridge it with a couple of diodes?

Craig

[martin manning]

I think you will get something with half voltage on the rectifier filament. Maybe add silicon diodes as the next step?

[CraigGa]

Thanks Martin,

I can get back on with build now.
While I was waiting for the new transformer, Sod's law struck and my trusty old soldering iron died on me!

Craig

[thetragichero]

it's so nice to see a manufacturer (even in a niche industry such as ours) stand behind their product like that. i'm glad you got it sorted!