[Amps] Hot Chasis Problem

[Vic Rosenthal]

aborg wrote:

> This chassis definitely is hot, it bites pretty good.
> Using 
> a piece wire touching from chassis to another contact
> chassis point yields a pretty good spark.

Here is what I suggest:

1) Completely disconnect the transformer.

2) Check all leads with with an ohmmeter to ground.

3) If the readings are not infinite, you have a problem.  If they are,

4) Check all leads with a 'megger' (megohmmeter) to ground (I think I'm showing 
my age, but these must still be around).  This is a device that measures 
resistance with a very high voltage low current source (several KV).  It will 
catch poor insulation.  You probably don't have one lying around.

There is a lot of capacity to ground in a large transformer and I wouldn't be 
surprised if you can measure some apparent leakage with a high impedance DVM, 
and even get a spark.  But given the danger inherent in the situation, it would 
be best to have it evaluated by an experienced person with the right equipment.

-- 
73,
Vic, K2VCO
Fresno CA
http://www.qsl.net/k2vco