The variac fuses are AGC10A (1/4" x 1-1/4", 250 V AC, 10 A, glass fast-blow). There is a set screw for holding the iron core in place, but it's easy to overtighten. Use the white core lifter instead.

The variac is connected to the pickle and a large voltage is applied ... "When a regular old dill pickle is skewered on two metal pins and 110 ac, regular old U.S. of A. house current is run through ...