[sswee]

Your voltage is too low, indicating a connection problem. Your most likely correct in your assessment of the threaded connection. I hang parts from a wire bent to a "J" to strip old anodize. You're figuring out everything pretty good. Just a reminder. Use some latex gloves from degrease step on. It's a bummer to get a good looking part done only to find fingerprints on it. They show up very well.