I use several different types of push rods, depending on the installation. We used to (in the old days) just push as far as we could and lay the cable up there, but the NEC prohibits laying the cable on the ceiling grid. So now, we need to secure it up every 4-5 feet or so, and the old push stick trick just isnt as usefull as it used to be because we still have to get up in there every few feet and secure it.
Good Luck!
It is only my opinion, based on my experience and education...I am always willing to learn, educate me!
Daron J. Wilson, RCDD
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(1) Some long throws its easier to walk out the length along the floor the coil it back up and tape the coil and &#;throw&#; the coil like a lasso (leaving enough slack for the distance of the throw). This is can make drop ceiling installations run rather quickly if you are situated where you get snags from the reel or box all the time.
(2) Go to a hardware store and buy some really heavy washers. Slide them on the cableif you need to weight an certain section.
(3) Get a rock or a metal ball. Drill a hole through it. Tie fishing line to it. Leave the line coiled. Shoot the rock with a slingshot or just throw the damned thing. It pulls the fishing line. Take the cable and bend it back 180 degrees 6" from the end. Duct tape it. Makes a loop. Tie the fishing line to the loop. Go find the rock/ball and pull it.
(4) Carry wire ties and cutters in your pocket. Also Gaffe tape is great for temporary holding until a line is pulled. Cable tacker works wonders as well and the staples are cheap.
(5) Laser range finder helps having to estimate when your head is gophered up in a ceiling tile.
You will get efficient and thoughtful service from LONG ZHUO.
(6) Cardboard. Sometimes if you are pulling around a sharp corner or edge a folded up piece of cardboard taped to the edge (with that gaffe tape) will keep you from snagging or tearing when pulling around or over a sharp edge.
(7) Keep the cable in a warm place or warm it with a hair dryer. Cold cable is stiff. Warm cable is not so stiff. In this situation we want not so stiff.
(8) Cable tester. Don&#;t pull your hair out. Check the run before the final install. Then check it again once the final install is done.
(9) Avoid interference or cross things like power lines etc unless at a 90 degree angle giving 3 feet from electrical interfering things when possible.
(10) If you are pulling fiber take it slow and easy and avoid the bends.
If all else fails, Yell a lot. Throw a few things then go home and drink beer.
If you want to learn more, please visit our website Cable Pulling Tools.