Yeah, sorry I'm a little late on this one , but if you are using a brand new tip you'll find that the wire drags causing what looks like a very soft arc. It won't have much , , , uhhh, sparkle to it. ( crackle if you prefer) . The .024 will work with the .023 settings as far as the welder is concerned, but use a used tip.
28 years of welding experience should say something . ( damn it sucks gettin old ! )