what's your input voltage??
you should re-configure your setup
12V = +NNNNN- = 2.0V per plate gap
13V = +NNNNNN- = 1.85V per plate gap
14V = +NNNNNN- = 2.0 V per plate gap
basically you want your plate gap voltage to be at or just under 2.0 V
Also with a 'brick in a bath' type design you have quite a bit of current leakage. You'll need to find something to wrap your cell with if you insist on this design. Most of us have switched to a dry cell type setup as it's considerably more efficient.
I hope this helps
mike
Individually our voices are but a whisper, only together will we be heard.
ENERGY SHOULD BE AND WILL BE FREE