[skyscraper]

Hi Steve thanks for the tip. I've actually already replaced it with an 8k6, and tried even lower with a pot.
I'm wondering if that's too small, since the reason it's supposed to be lowered is to compensate for moisture in the form, most of which is hopefully gone after the baking. That coupled with the excessive B voltage could be messing with something. I should have three or four 36 tubes to choose from by next weekend. If none of them work, I might try raising that resistor back to 10k. I don't quite understand why a few inches of wire on the coil completely fixes it though..

I have a bit of 'thunder' out of the audio section as well, that isn't affected by the volume control. I think it might be dirty pins or caps, I'm going to clean them all tomorrow.

Mondial, that suggestion is genius, thanks! Wired as you said this transformer produces 115.5v - perfect! I found a fuse holder too, I love the idea of a universal 'safety box.'