As for resistors on 12v, forget it and run a small constant current module.(Ebay...couple of dollars)
Reason being as voltage changes even slightly, the power dissipation requirement of the resistor change quite a bit.
Tends to stop the HV tracking out from under the probe cap across the dust on the tube.
May come by other names such as anti-tracking or dielectric grease.
Can't comment on any damage you may have done with a screwdriver, just try it and see.
Use a logic level mosfet.
Easy to identify by the use of "L" in the prefix.
An example would be IRLZ44n.
Also run a 10K resistor from gate to ground to make sure the mosfet turns off.
I'm not looking for mains surge/overvoltage protection.
And I am aware of the device you refer to when used in projector bulb circuits but this is a motor (bit different kettle of fish)
What I am after is similar to motor start voltage reduction.
No you misunderstand.
The proposed (series) inductor is to try to limit the motor inrush current at startup allowing a smoother runup to the design speed.
Have a small induction motor on sliding gate I just finished building.
Motor unit is a commercially built unit and during the initial start it fair clunks into operation.
After that it it relatively smooth.
Motor is similar in arrangement to that show in the diagram. (500w AC 220v)
Just found...
When one needs circuits, one has to run cabling, simple.
When trying to explain the intended setup it always helps to provide some wiring arrangement drawing, no matter how basic.
Block diagrams help also.
If you are referring to the ac plug pack secondary you mentioned above, then no.
FYI "hot" and "neutral" are terms used for mains wiring, not low voltage.
From experience, 99% of the time one will have a battery on charge, usually with a group of others.
Along comes "don't give a toss" and grabs the first battery they come to.
Markings on the charger and battery don't seem to make any difference.
If one is lucky, considering some of these...