Besides G2 settings (screen pots) and CRT bias setting, the video out tube can cause low brightness. Most of what I read on proper setup is to NOT compensate for low brightness by cranking up the bias or screens (above the normal setup procedure using the setup switch). If there is low brightness AFTER the setup procedure is complete, then some more work needs to be done, unless of course expectations are just too high.
I would hold up any further work and get the HV checked out and setup (correct hv, and shunt tube current).
IIRC the problem with a weak video out tube is the plate voltage ends up being high due to a lack of V drop, and since the CRT is directly coupled the CRT cathode voltage ends up higher than is should be, cutting off the CRT.
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