Re: Ferrule(sp) advice

"Jack" <jackjohansson@xxxxxxxxx> wrote in news:1125271886.900983.24010
@z14g2000cwz.googlegroups.com:

> Does anyone use ferrules(sp) on cable? I need to make some straps out
> of 3/64 cable, they will not carry heavy loads, just span a gym and
> paper stars will be hung from them.
>
> Can I use ferrules if I just crimp them "Detroit Style" by pounding on
> them with a hammer? How about smashing them in my bench vice?

Do it right or don't do it. YOU know that it's only intended for paper
stars, but these things have a way of being left up and then used for
other purposes.

Ferrules are meant to be compressed from all sides; if they aren't, they
don't hold. If you don't have a crimper, this is exactly what cable
clamps are for. Add a turnbuckle if you need tension.


>
> I have seen the tools specifically for the job but they are way to
> expensive.
>
> Do I really need to use thimbles, or can I just make loops.
>
> (I want to use cable because we decorate the gym frequently and it
> would be nice to just have a set that we can string up, rather than
> re-invent the wheel every time and start tying rope, and trying to keep
> them from stretching... etc. )

In this case, absolutely use loops. If you're leaving it up, you'll
start adding heavier things. I've seen it before. Now it's paper
starts, next it's twinkle lights and pretty soon you've got a mirror ball
up there, and it comes down in the middle of the homecoming dance.


>
> would I be better just using wire clamps? The seem more expensive
>

Cheaper than a busted skull. If you can't do it right, you should not do
it at all. Get that tattooed on the back of your hand for quick
reference.


> I got a bead on a good reel of 3/64 cable on ebay... so I think I have
> that licked.. anyone know of a good cheap source of ferrules or cable
> clamps to use on it?

Cable clamps are easy to find: any hardware store will have them.

And use them correctly; there is a right way and a way that will fail.
If you don't know which is which, you should not string the cable.
Things that hang over people's heads will try to fall on them.



--
}:-) Christopher Jahn
{:-( http://home.comcast.net/~xjahn/Main.html

Those students who have become one with the universe will be
allowed to go on and become two with the universe.
.