Took my gun apart tonight. I knew this ^^^^ was not the problem as I've had it apart many times before. The gun shows zero signs of wear, just the ceramic tip gives it up. Quick. I blasted an oil pan. Used my last new tip. Was new when I started but egg shell thin when I got done.
I am going to try this mod to the gun, but now it will be a bit before I can report back because I don't have any more tips. I am going to look for some carbide tips I guess. It's always something. lol