Great vid. Working primarily as a residential repair/remodel electrician, I've had quite a few encounters with splices. Twisting them certainly makes them more secure, but try being the guy that has to wrestle that beast apart on a live circuit! Lol. Six of one, half dozen of the other. Early on, I was a hardcore Klein fan. Great tools, no doubt. The tools, however, don't make the tradesman. These days my belt is filled with a variety of names.. Klein, Greenlee, Lennox, etc. Truth be told, my "go to" items that I carry in on a service call are Klein 12/2-14/2 cable strippers, Klein dual wire strippers, a 9in1 Lennox screw driver, a sturdy pair of needlenose, dikes, a "suicide stick" voltage detector (we never learn), digital clamp on multi meter. The one tool I wish you had mentioned, considering the audience you are reaching out to, is a clear and sharp mind along with an understanding of the system you are working on. The repair/remodel niche has shown me far too many instances of negligence and ignorance to safety. Your electrical system, residential or otherwise, can give you all the benefits of today's technology, and if improperly installed it can take everything from you. Including your life. I tackle every job as if it's my family that will live there.
Thanks Chris! Agreed- it's six of one, half dozen of the other! That's very true- the tools don't make the man! I have tons of name-brand tools related to many trades and while most are great, I have some very inexpensive tools that work just fine. If it's not going to be used much, I always go cheap. If it turns into a more needed tool- I might just replace it or consider an upgrade. Had I had to do it over again, I'd probably not own a single Snap-on tool- much less the box..lol. You are correct! The mind and understanding ARE the most valuable tools one can possess. This video spun out of an investment renovation project I was doing. Open joints, hidden junction boxes, etc. I noted many problems that I needed to correct. The entire project was tackled with the same philosophy as yours- as if it's my family that would be the ones living there. Doing any type of shoddy work won't let me sleep at night. The world needs many many more with your attitude! Take care, G.
OMG, that screwdriver with the pin for making horseshoes (loops) for wiring is simple but amazing! I've been just using pliers for decades & I am so gonna go out & buy one of those tomorrow! Know not "big deal" but when wiring up 10,000+ square feet buildings with recepts, time is money & this would be amazing. Love learning new things everyday, even if been in business for 25 years; "Person can Always Learn Something NEW". Thanks a bunch. Great vid. ~Cheers~
Great demo video. I am a retired electrician that worked almost entirely in commercial and industrial jobs. I am also a huge Klein Tool fan. I never had a Klein Tool fail me unless it was something I did to damage the tool. I have a pair of lineman's pliers that I know was purchased in 1978 that are still useful, yet it has it's share of battle scars. The cutters are pretty well eaten up by cutting live wires and a coworker who borrowed it to cut heavy gauge steel wire that I wasn't aware of. The insulated handles are chewed up, but again that was user abuse. I'm sure I have several other Klein Tools that date back that far, but I can't be sure if they are originals from my apprenticeship. Oh yes, I have the large flat blade screwdriver that was purchased at the same time and I have beat to pieces. I used it to to tighten locknuts, used as a pry bar, and as a chisel. The plastic handle has taken a tremendous beating but it held together all these years. I can't say that about the tip. It has been ground down and redressed several times, but never properly. Both of these tools were retired from the tool box, but kept nearby, just in case. --- Buy your tools like your career depends on them. Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.
+YoderTexas Thanks! For the trade, they are the best no questions asked. LOL, I've a couple of pair of needle nose that have been blown out by cutting live wires when I thought the circuits were dead. I didn't bother to test them before going at it...lol. They are my abuse pliers these days! My older drivers turn into chisels and pry bars as well...lol. Agreed, take care of your tools and they will take care of you! Thanks for the post, G.
***** I forgot to mention one tip that you didn't mention with the strippers. I'm talking about using the little holes in them to make hooks for going around screws.
YoderTexas That's true. Someone else mentioned the holes to me as well. I'd never even seen them on my own sets...lol. I've since started using them. G.
I stumbled on this video looking for a review of Klein screwdrivers and found out how to properly wire a receptacle, which coincidentally I have to do tomorrow! Now I don’t have to go look up a video on that too! Thanks for the review and lesson!
Big thumbs up brother, wish i could do it a thousand more times for you! Like you, I worked as electrical in a past life doing mostly new and old work residential and some of the things you said hit home for me. I remember i used to think my boss was crazy muttering to himself angrily and if the home owner was out, completely yelling verbal assault to no one. That is until i started getting sent out on my own jobs and leading my own team, running into absolute hack work. Do it right and never again, or at least do it right so when i come along years later i can do it right too! Great video.
+Gabriel Lee Thanks Gabriel! LOL, your boss was cursing work that made his work harder- and you originally thought he was crazy while he was screaming obscenities! Then after you started doing the work on your own- I'm sure you understood quickly what he was yelling about- and maybe even started screaming yourself...lol. I agree, do it right the first time and there may never be a problem. And if there is a problem, the next guy won't be cursing the first one...lol. Take care, G.
Hard to beat Kleins. The grips just feel great in the hand and the steel is excellent. The extra weight in the handles is like a flywheel when spinning down hardware too. Simply a great design. The nut drivers are great too. No better tool for hose/no-hub clamps and toilet assembly intstallation. My Dad was a plumber and always had a set handy. I inherited a lot of his stuff and appreciate the quality tools he left me. Milwaukee drills and bits, Rigid plumbing tools etc. I have had the exact same reaction as you when using a virgin tool for the first time after using it's predecessor beyond is lifespan for longer than I should have. Have you ever been at a friends place and while helping them fix something asked for a number 2 phillips and got the deer in the headlights look? Haha! And then experienced the sorry excuse for what they call a screwdriver? Oh well. Some guys are tool guys and some are not.
It is! I was in plumbing, HVAC, and commercial refrigeration years ago and the nut drivers were always being used across the board. Setting toilets is one of the uses I used them for. They have a good deep hole for tightening up closet bolts before they're cut off. Your Dad did it right for sure! You're right for appreciating the quality of what he left you! I have three Milwaukee corded drills and I would have no other brand if given the choice. Ridgid is my choice for plumbing tools as well- nothing else compares. I've been meaning to show them in video but haven't found the time just yet. And yes, I have experienced what some will call a screwdriver...lol. Some wonder why they round out any fastener they try to remove...hmm..lol. I have tools from the top shelf down. I spend mostly based on what the need is, and how long I think it is. That's why I purchase a lot from Harbor Freight. I'm not using my tools for commercial use these days, and most of what I get from them satisfies my needs. But, some things, like mentioned, I will not compromise on...lol. Take care, G.
Heya Ghostes, I'm in the trade and have a bunch of Klein screwdivers, but never saw the one with the pin.. very cool.. gonna get a couple of those. Here's another trick: after placing the wire around the terminal screw on an outlet, most duplexes have a little built-in plastic "hook" that you can put the free end under, then rock the lead back n forth to pinch the loop closed.. this keeps ya from having to pick up needlenose or strippers, saving a step. Then just tighten the terminal screw as usual. Check it out. And the Klein nut drivers rock. They're drilled deeper than any other brand I've used.. great for use with nuts on long fasteners.
Thomas, looks like your settings change worked. I thought I would add the part number here, for the driver with the pin, in case anyone else might want to pick one up. 603-4B. Like I said, I think they make regular drivers with the pin as well. Thanks again for the tip on the recepts. I'll be checking mine out when I have time- if I can find them that is. I agree about the drivers- especially how deep they're drilled. They're also great for setting toilet bowls since new closet bolts are way long. After they're tightened up, they're cut off so the cap will fit. These are the best drivers for that task due to the deep holes and close quarters. A must have in my opinion! Take care, G.
Thomas, I thought I would feedback on the hook you mentioned. I was working on one of my properties and was changing out some recepts and switches. Sure enough, the hook was starring me right in the face. I can't believe I've never seen it before...lol. One less tool to grab! Thanks much for the info on that- it's now in my brain! Hope all is well, G.
+ghostses , You can do a Search on Amazon or eBay for "Klein Wire Bending" and find most, (even Discontinued), Klein Screwdrivers that have the Wire Bending Pin. Here's what I found. Klein Tools 603-3B #1 Wire Bending Phillips-Tip Klein Tools 603-4B #2 Wire Bending Phillips Round Shank Tip Screwdriver Klein Tools 605-4B 4-Inch Round-Shank Wire Bending Cabinet-Tip Screwdriver Klein Tools 605-6B 1/4-Inch Wire Bending Cabinet 6-Inch Round Shank Tip Screwdriver Klein Tools 661B Wire Bending #1 Square-Recess Tip Screwdriver with 4-Inch Round-Shank Klein Tools 662B Wire Bending #2 Square-Recess Tip Screwdriver
Great video G, I've always been mostly a Snap-On snob but since the truck never stops by anymore I've been looking for good replacement tools. Most of my drivers handles have failed me lately and they aren't under warranty so I've been looking for some decent replacements. Anyhow, I've had some Klien tools in my electrical bag but never looked to them for screw drivers. I'm going to pay more attention to them now. Thanks!
Thanks Larry, I do have a Snap-on cab chocked full of their tools- but don't need to spend the money on them these days. They are the best for sure, but as you know you pay dearly for anything sporting their name. It's been about 20 or so yrs since I left the auto trade. These drivers are a good quality for a reasonable price. They may not last as long as Snap-on- but cost only a fraction. Thanks, G.
Thanks! I use a bigger loop for two reasons. The first is, I find it easier to get a hold of it with the pliers to close the loop tight. The second is, if the receptacle needs to be changed later, it's easier to get it off the screw. Take care, G.
Most people cant understand getting hit off a neutral is worse than hot. Thankfully I've been shock free for 2 years. 120v of course. Never hit with 277 yet knock on wood. Maybe today hehe
Very Good Information, (didn't know about the Klein Wire Bending Pin on some Klein Screwdrivers). Your Voice sounds like Tom Bodett, (I'll Leave the Light On For You~!); and that's a Good Thing~! What is the Model Number of the Klein 12/2 Wire / Cable Stripper that you're using with one Yellow Handle and one Gray Handle? (Resembles the Ideal 45-249 12/2 NM Cable T-Stripper Wire Stripper).
+Charlie Warren Thanks Charlie! It would be nice if I had a chain of Motel6's lol. I guess I'll just have to settle for sounding like Tom- or maybe he sounds like me- lol. The model of the strippers is No. 1012. The do look exactly like the Ideal for sure. Hope this helps, G.
Great video. I appreciated your demonstrations. Like the driver with a pin sticking out, that is brilliant. I wonder what clever electrical woodworker first discovered that trick, hahaha... probably fastened a nail in his driver and Dewalt got wind of the innovation.
+Jon Disnard Thanks Jon! That driver is really cool. LOL! You never know how things come to be for sure. Someone was definitely the first in everything. Who they are/were- we may never know! Take care, G.
Hey I feel good that (most) everything you said I was already doing! The pin for making a loop seems like something to keep an eye out for. I want to leave enough meat on the wires in the box - but accordian folding the wires into the box has never really worked well for me. Can you show how to do that efficiently? Thanks
Tanks Steve! I'm not prepared for showing how to fold the wires into the box since I have nothing pending. I can say the folds are deliberate and aggressive. Not much help. Take care, G.
James, I picked mine up years ago at Home Depot. I assumed it was Klein, and it might be, since it looks just like their drivers. I dug it out and the only thing it says on it is "The Original Spinner". No model number or anything else. They may not be made anymore, but hope this helps nonetheless. Good luck, G.
Dill, don't quote me but this is my view. In commercial applications with metal boxes I would say yes. But when using plastic boxes for residential use- no. Dig deeper as this is only my opinion. Take care, G.
My opinion on that would be, plastic on plastic, no jump. Metal box then jump it, just thinking of what can conduct, I'd like to see a plastic box and receptacle ground outside of that box, the home 12-2 that I do, I use that rule...plastic on plastic no box ground, metal box=ground it.
Anyone know where you can get the Wire nut spinner? Checked Amazon and Ebay….no luck cant imagine they quit making it. Looks like a good tool if you do tons of outlets/quads
I looked around Robert and came up empty handed. I guess they may have discontinued them. I know I purchased mine at Home Depot a long time ago. I guess I need to take good care of it. Take care, G.
+Miguel Angel No Miguel, they do not. I'm not sure of the smaller ones, but the larger ones have a hole that goes down into the shaft. So you can tighten up nuts one a long bolt. Good luck, G.
Thank you for educate me a little bit more about electricity, i'm interested but so fucking scared of it. Nice to know when I'll be an home owner soon !!
+SOfilmable No problem! Respect it, but don't be scared of it. Just make sure to turn off your breaker(s) before you do anything. Everything you would need to know is available online to learn to do things safely. Good luck with your new home! Take care, G.
Does Klein make both flat and Phillips in that prong screw driver for shoeing wire ends? And sidebar, in HVAC school we were taught that twisting wire together before capping with nut did more damage, because it fought the natural twist of the wire nut...
I have, but have never had my hands on any. I need to find a local source so I can check them out first hand. I like to feel any tools I buy so I'm reluctant to order online until I know I'll like them. I've have heard good things about them for sure. Thanks, G.
Emin HVAC Klein is awesome. Knipex is too (I use both - Knipex wire cutters are the thing). Only problem with Knipex is that there is barely any local dealers, where as for Klein You can get it at home depot. As for OP - use the attachment for impact drill for wire nuts.
I'm going to disagree with the push backs for the wires on the outlets they are usually pretty tight and the spring tension on the recep blades are going to wear out before those do. also you don't need to twist the wires together that was the old way when the wire nuts were not UL listed and weren't rated to make contact now you are supposed to let the wire nut twist them together just have to give it a few good turns after its tight to twist them together but I get what you mean if someone didn't really tighten them its a giant pain gotta get them big wire nut calluses lol great vid though.
That's cool Jonathan. We can agree to disagree on the push backs. When I was renovating our investment property, more than half of the recepts were dead and they were all installed in the eighties using the push in wiring. Most let go as I was pulling the recepts from the boxes. I'm sure they were cheap and don't know if better quality would make a difference. I just feel better wrapping the screws. That's true and is written on every box I have. I was taught to twist, so that's what I still do. Just another thing that makes me feel better. I'm sure they work just fine if installed correctly. It's the limp wristed/incorrect installations that get under my skin..lol. Thanks and take care, G.
You need to pigtail all 3 leads when two or more cables enter a box so that if the receptacle fails all of the receptacles down the line function properly.
That's certainly an option Brad, but as I see it- a failed receptacle will not affect the downstream. One might fail internally- but the screw terminals are jumped externally so the rest should remain working. The only way I see that happening is if one or both of the jumpers burned off. I could be wrong, but those are my thoughts. Take care, G.
Great concept, but I personally will NEVER use those strippers that strip the 14/2 and 12/2 Romex jacket. One job I used them on, I had multiple feeds and switchlegs slightly broken, either on the hot or on the neutral. I had to spend a few hours laying in the scorching hot attic splicing them. I don't know if the stripper was worn down or if I squeezed too hard, but I do know that from that day forward I never used them again, and I never had an issue again. I'm more comfortable either using a razor knife or even lightly scoring a point on the jacket and then ripping it off. Only do the second method if you have some experience and have a feel for what you're doing....BTW, I'm not one of those electricians that will say anything method I personally don't like is 100% wrong and say it's trash or whatever. It's just that I personally don't feel comfortable using them anymore after that happened. I shudder to think if that happened at a place where I couldn't get to a place to splice them....
To each their own I say Matt! Go with what you know and what works for you. I use them with a light squeeze and a slight wiggle to score the sheath- then pull the sheath off. I've had good luck with them for myself. Yeah, if you couldn't get into the space to splice- it's game over and start over. Take care, G.
Why don't you guys just switch to Wago's like we do here in Europe... Also, i have seen a lot of videos where people strip the wire on the desired length for a wire nut and twist the 2 short ends together with a plier. That's the wrong way to do it. You should strip the wires like 6 inches and twist them together by hand for a tighter fit and cut them with cable shears.
I can't be certain from this video, but that looks like a 15 amp receptacle. When using a 15 amp receptacle on a 20 amp circuit ( which i assume you are from your use of 12/2) you can not attach conductors to the second set of terminals to continue the circuit. This you mean any current drawn down the line will be also going through this receptacle. Just pig tail the conductors.
+Greg Herzl Yes, it was a 15 amp receptacle. Not that it matters to what you're saying, but I use 12/2 regardless if the breaker is 15 or 20 amps. The UL listing should state that any 15 amp receptacle be able to pass a full 20 amps- so wiring to the second set of terminals should not be an issue. Pig-tailing is also a good practice. I'm not sure of the national code these days, so correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe both methods are acceptable- or at least I believe they were. Local might be a different story though. Either way, I'm not in the trade, so take anything I say with a big grain of salt! Take care, G.
+Greg Herzl That's cool Greg. There's nothing wrong with using pigtails and it doesn't take much longer to to, especially if you have enough room in the box. I'm sure there are tons that do exactly that. Like I said, I may be wrong here and there. If I am in some way, I have do doubt someone will be more than eager to tell me- no matter how small it may be...lol. Good luck, G.
+Greg Herzl Research is always a good thing Greg! Taking the time to look deeper into it says plenty about you. I generally don't take any one word for anything without looking into it. I try to find a majority consensus on a particular topic and go with that since it's most likely the correct answer- especially if it's not formally written somewhere. I know folks do some things in different ways and do think some of it has to do with it being passed down, and some with simple geographical location in how things are usually done. Are in in the trade, or wanting to get into it? Either way, if you are or do- I think you will be extremely successful. Especially since you picked a small piece out of this video, questioned it, then took it upon yourself to dig deeper. That's a good recipe for success not matter what you do! Take care, G.
I love Klein tools iam not an electrician but I work in industrial maintenance and have had many of my Klein tools for years. Iam also a cheap bastard and I hate hate hate buying something twice because was cheap and broke with Klein I don't worry about that :-)
dont klien insulate there electricians tools ? and they all seem realy large compared to bahco facom......i do like the twin and earth strippers though
They do have a line of insulated tools but I don't have any. I've never seen or used any bacho facom tools so I can't comment on the size difference. The strippers are great. Take care, G.
00:16.19 Pet Peeves, AGREED, sucks when doing a job & open up a box, receptacle, etc...& you only have 0.5" of wire to work on b/c someone cut of too much or thought shouldn't leave extra, etc.... Swear, it's like you need 5 extra hands & fingers the size of a 1 yr old to get in here & work on the "project", one of my biggest pet peeves. Another knew I have, finished wiring a 10k sq ft school for all new outlets & Internet (ran cat 5e plenum) & had like 177 lines going into server room plus utility room & the people hanging drywall came in & put drywall over 2/3 main "pipelines" of all cables going to main setup with T the drop ceiling & literally cutoff half of the wires. Had to rerun half of the wires all over again & some of them were well over 100ft pulls(not to mention at this time all duct work, drywall, paint, etc...was complete in all rooms except server & utility rooms). Asked them why did that, said cuz ceiling supposed to be such & such height, whatever, common sense says for me....if that the case, lowering drywall .5-.75" to accommodate wiring, not big deal. Argh, some people.... So agree, would rather have too much extra wire to deal with, than barely enough & have to run new! Sorry about long story 😱😉
What home owners are buying klein tools for around the house? lmao considering they are on average $30-40 more than your average husky or milwaukee hand tools. These are for professionals. But anyways, interesting hearing guys saying not to pre twist wires. I go nuts if someone doesn't Go and open a joint and it falls apart. I have never had a problem removing a wire from a twisted bunch. Besides not even supposed to be working live. But whatever, where I started I always worked live. And joints not twisted were the worse. Open a marrette and you get arcing on the wires. But whatever. I hate branch wiring rather just be on distribution or controls.
+Joe Chitussi Me Joe, Me...lol. The brand, for me, is from my past- much like my Snap-on tools. The average person does not need them for sure, but with some things, I go for quality over cost- Klein being one of them. Milwaukee power tools would be another...lol I'm right there with you on folks not twisting. I put it in the same category as using the holes in recepts rather then wrapping around the screws. Clean, bright, and tight is my motto for many things. Take care, G.
I'm a DIY guy and I eventually settled on Klein because I was tired of cheap tools. As he demonstrates in the video, things are just easier with new, well-made tools, even if I use them every other week. It's a confidence builder knowing that I'm gonna make the mistake--not the cheap screwdriver.
I'm going to hunt YOU down for pre twisting wires. j/k but It is NOT proper. It says right in the directions that pre twisting is not necessary. I understand the argument about wires popping apart when you remove the wire nut but that can be alleviated by simply holding the wires properly. Pre twisted wires make it nigh on impossible to remove one conductor from the splice when you are working hot. I realize its six of one, half a dozen of the other but I am firmly on the other side. Please fellow electricians, have mercy on those of us that have perform service work hot and do NOT pre twist.
+Flyingsod Wai LOL. Yeah, I know there's tons of debate on which way to go and good reasoning on each side. I also know it says it's not necessary, but it does not say not to- if I recall correctly. I respect you being firmly on the other side, and know we're not going to change each others minds...lol. I'm going insert just a couple of my opinions over what I said in the video, again with no trying to alter your mind. Personally, I prefer to make a mechanical bond by twisting and not rely on the nut only. I believe the nut is supposed to twist them to a degree as it's installed "properly", and properly is the key word. It's been a looonnngg time since I've worked in the trade, but had seen too many limp wristed "nut jobs"..lol. Conductors arching and burnt up, nuts falling off when you open a box, pulling them directly off, etc. Now I realize these types of things were probably due to some limp wristed lacky not doing good clean, and proper work, but the problems did/do exist. Take care man, G.
I ALWAYS pre-twist. It's just the norm wherever I have been. Although with the ideal wire connectors they can actually splice the wires for you if you just twist it on ( I've only seen it done with two #14, so I doubt it can be done with 2 #12 or higher). I have done lots of service work on pre twisted hot splices and its not a big deal, just be careful. I find it to be pretty scabby if the guy before me doesn't twist, but to each their own.
Cole Beattie Yeah, there's folks on both sides but I'm with you on twisting. It may have something to do with geographical location because it is the norm around here. Agreed, to each their own. Take care, G.
I have been an electrician for twenty years with the last ten being primarily in service. You sir do not know what you are talking about. I curse when I take off a wire nut and the joint pops apart. It doesn’t matter how you hold it. There is a very simple way to isolate one wire from a joint no matter how many wires are tied together. Wires should be twisted to ensure a good path for the current and to insure that if you are working hot and need to check voltage on a circuit that needs to remain hot, like in data centers, computer based businesses etc, you don’t lose power on the circuit by just taking off a wire nut. So called electricians who don’t twist their joints are just lazy, pure and simple. In all my years I have never met a good electrician who doesn’t twist their wires. The only ones who don’t do it are the lazy helpers who are just at work for a paycheck. That’s my rant and I’m sticking to it.
Yeah. Whether you pretwist or not, the end result should be a joint. a joint holds ITSELF together, and has at least 3 twists of bare conductor, and two twists of insulated conductor after. If you need to achieve this by using pliers on bigger wire, fine, on small stuff the wirenut has plenty of force, but on 12 AWG my hands are not going to last all day. But for F*@ks sake, any joint that just falls apart is NOT a joint and shouldn't be used. If you can't work live because the circuit is people made, then figure out how to disconnect. Let's not drag the whole trade down to the lowest level in search of the easiest way to do everything.
I am a sparky from Australia. Every time I see these ugly US "receptacles" - we call them power points or GPOs (General Purpose Outlets) - wiring practices and the use of unstranded wire (especially for the earth) it makes me want to cringe. And don't get me started on those ridiculous unsafe wire "nuts". A stupid unsafe practice IMO.
+Peter Triantafilou That's cool Peter. LOL, I guess its all in what you're used to seeing. I think your receptacles look like MR. Bill...lol. I won't disagree with the nuts. That's why I twist connections to give them a better shot. Tons will disagree with me on twisting connections- but my attitude is the twist is the mechanical connection- the nut is to protect the connection from shorting out. Thanks for the post and good luck, G.
Actually the nuts are a mechanical connection, also the long debated twist or not doesn't matter, the wire nut manufacturer typically specifies how they prefer but the nuts are designed to secure either way now days. years ago 3M made their nuts to secure parallel wires and proved more surface area in the mechanical connection when wires were kept straight but over time they manufactured them to hold either way because you can't get an electrician to not twist the wires LOL.
real electricians will always treat a wire or circuit as hot.. will always pigtail all wire going to a receptacle.. a wire nut spinner what a waste of time all you need are your fingers.
+twig d What exactly is a real electrician. I've seen real electricians, plumbers, framers, roofers, etc. and have seen good and bad work in all the trades. If real means doing it for a living, and maybe having some some formal education, I don't take real very seriously. I explained why I use the spinner so that comment was unnecessary. G.
Great vid. Working primarily as a residential repair/remodel electrician, I've had quite a few encounters with splices. Twisting them certainly makes them more secure, but try being the guy that has to wrestle that beast apart on a live circuit! Lol. Six of one, half dozen of the other.
Early on, I was a hardcore Klein fan. Great tools, no doubt. The tools, however, don't make the tradesman. These days my belt is filled with a variety of names.. Klein, Greenlee, Lennox, etc. Truth be told, my "go to" items that I carry in on a service call are Klein 12/2-14/2 cable strippers, Klein dual wire strippers, a 9in1 Lennox screw driver, a sturdy pair of needlenose, dikes, a "suicide stick" voltage detector (we never learn), digital clamp on multi meter.
The one tool I wish you had mentioned, considering the audience you are reaching out to, is a clear and sharp mind along with an understanding of the system you are working on. The repair/remodel niche has shown me far too many instances of negligence and ignorance to safety. Your electrical system, residential or otherwise, can give you all the benefits of today's technology, and if improperly installed it can take everything from you. Including your life. I tackle every job as if it's my family that will live there.
Thanks Chris! Agreed- it's six of one, half dozen of the other!
That's very true- the tools don't make the man! I have tons of name-brand tools related to many trades and while most are great, I have some very inexpensive tools that work just fine. If it's not going to be used much, I always go cheap. If it turns into a more needed tool- I might just replace it or consider an upgrade. Had I had to do it over again, I'd probably not own a single Snap-on tool- much less the box..lol.
You are correct! The mind and understanding ARE the most valuable tools one can possess. This video spun out of an investment renovation project I was doing. Open joints, hidden junction boxes, etc. I noted many problems that I needed to correct. The entire project was tackled with the same philosophy as yours- as if it's my family that would be the ones living there. Doing any type of shoddy work won't let me sleep at night. The world needs many many more with your attitude! Take care, G.
Very good video. Good info for the home owner and the pro. I like the driver with the pin. Thanks,
Roland
Thanks Roland. I need to order another one for sure. The pin is extremely handy.
Thanks, G.
OMG, that screwdriver with the pin for making horseshoes (loops) for wiring is simple but amazing! I've been just using pliers for decades & I am so gonna go out & buy one of those tomorrow! Know not "big deal" but when wiring up 10,000+ square feet buildings with recepts, time is money & this would be amazing. Love learning new things everyday, even if been in business for 25 years; "Person can Always Learn Something NEW". Thanks a bunch. Great vid. ~Cheers~
FYI,mig can't find a screwdriver with that pin, I'm gonna hit you up for some help....Just wanted to give you a heads up.
Thx Again.
Yes, it's very handy. Good luck, G.
Here's a link to one. Take care, G.
www.amazon.com/Klein-Tools-603-4B-Phillips-Screwdriver/dp/B00093D6MC
Great demo video. I am a retired electrician that worked almost entirely in commercial and industrial jobs. I am also a huge Klein Tool fan. I never had a Klein Tool fail me unless it was something I did to damage the tool. I have a pair of lineman's pliers that I know was purchased in 1978 that are still useful, yet it has it's share of battle scars. The cutters are pretty well eaten up by cutting live wires and a coworker who borrowed it to cut heavy gauge steel wire that I wasn't aware of. The insulated handles are chewed up, but again that was user abuse. I'm sure I have several other Klein Tools that date back that far, but I can't be sure if they are originals from my apprenticeship. Oh yes, I have the large flat blade screwdriver that was purchased at the same time and I have beat to pieces. I used it to to tighten locknuts, used as a pry bar, and as a chisel. The plastic handle has taken a tremendous beating but it held together all these years. I can't say that about the tip. It has been ground down and redressed several times, but never properly. Both of these tools were retired from the tool box, but kept nearby, just in case. --- Buy your tools like your career depends on them. Take care of your tools and they will take care of you.
+YoderTexas
Thanks! For the trade, they are the best no questions asked. LOL, I've a couple of pair of needle nose that have been blown out by cutting live wires when I thought the circuits were dead. I didn't bother to test them before going at it...lol. They are my abuse pliers these days! My older drivers turn into chisels and pry bars as well...lol. Agreed, take care of your tools and they will take care of you! Thanks for the post, G.
*****
I forgot to mention one tip that you didn't mention with the strippers. I'm talking about using the little holes in them to make hooks for going around screws.
YoderTexas
That's true. Someone else mentioned the holes to me as well. I'd never even seen them on my own sets...lol. I've since started using them. G.
*****
When you're using the strippers, it is so easy just to bend your hook right then, than to lay them down and pick up another tool.
YoderTexas
Agreed! G.
I stumbled on this video looking for a review of Klein screwdrivers and found out how to properly wire a receptacle, which coincidentally I have to do tomorrow! Now I don’t have to go look up a video on that too! Thanks for the review and lesson!
Good deal Luke! Good luck, G.
Big thumbs up brother, wish i could do it a thousand more times for you! Like you, I worked as electrical in a past life doing mostly new and old work residential and some of the things you said hit home for me. I remember i used to think my boss was crazy muttering to himself angrily and if the home owner was out, completely yelling verbal assault to no one. That is until i started getting sent out on my own jobs and leading my own team, running into absolute hack work. Do it right and never again, or at least do it right so when i come along years later i can do it right too! Great video.
+Gabriel Lee
Thanks Gabriel! LOL, your boss was cursing work that made his work harder- and you originally thought he was crazy while he was screaming obscenities! Then after you started doing the work on your own- I'm sure you understood quickly what he was yelling about- and maybe even started screaming yourself...lol. I agree, do it right the first time and there may never be a problem. And if there is a problem, the next guy won't be cursing the first one...lol. Take care, G.
i am not an electrician. i am a handyman and maintenance person. but i love the Klein hand tools.
I agree Luke! G.
Thanks for posting this video. It was very informative and useful.
No problem! Good luck, G.
Great video. I learned at least three things.
Thanks Keller! Take care, G.
You’re the man
I’m not a electrician but I only bought klien brand all my handyman tools.
Thanks Aarron! That's cool! Take care, G.
Hard to beat Kleins. The grips just feel great in the hand and the steel is excellent. The extra weight in the handles is like a flywheel when spinning down hardware too. Simply a great design. The nut drivers are great too. No better tool for hose/no-hub clamps and toilet assembly intstallation. My Dad was a plumber and always had a set handy. I inherited a lot of his stuff and appreciate the quality tools he left me. Milwaukee drills and bits, Rigid plumbing tools etc. I have had the exact same reaction as you when using a virgin tool for the first time after using it's predecessor beyond is lifespan for longer than I should have. Have you ever been at a friends place and while helping them fix something asked for a number 2 phillips and got the deer in the headlights look? Haha! And then experienced the sorry excuse for what they call a screwdriver? Oh well. Some guys are tool guys and some are not.
It is! I was in plumbing, HVAC, and commercial refrigeration years ago and the nut drivers were always being used across the board. Setting toilets is one of the uses I used them for. They have a good deep hole for tightening up closet bolts before they're cut off. Your Dad did it right for sure! You're right for appreciating the quality of what he left you! I have three Milwaukee corded drills and I would have no other brand if given the choice. Ridgid is my choice for plumbing tools as well- nothing else compares. I've been meaning to show them in video but haven't found the time just yet. And yes, I have experienced what some will call a screwdriver...lol. Some wonder why they round out any fastener they try to remove...hmm..lol. I have tools from the top shelf down. I spend mostly based on what the need is, and how long I think it is. That's why I purchase a lot from Harbor Freight. I'm not using my tools for commercial use these days, and most of what I get from them satisfies my needs. But, some things, like mentioned, I will not compromise on...lol. Take care, G.
Heya Ghostes, I'm in the trade and have a bunch of Klein screwdivers, but never saw the one with the pin.. very cool.. gonna get a couple of those. Here's another trick: after placing the wire around the terminal screw on an outlet, most duplexes have a little built-in plastic "hook" that you can put the free end under, then rock the lead back n forth to pinch the loop closed.. this keeps ya from having to pick up needlenose or strippers, saving a step. Then just tighten the terminal screw as usual. Check it out.
And the Klein nut drivers rock. They're drilled deeper than any other brand I've used.. great for use with nuts on long fasteners.
Thomas, looks like your settings change worked. I thought I would add the part number here, for the driver with the pin, in case anyone else might want to pick one up. 603-4B. Like I said, I think they make regular drivers with the pin as well.
Thanks again for the tip on the recepts. I'll be checking mine out when I have time- if I can find them that is.
I agree about the drivers- especially how deep they're drilled. They're also great for setting toilet bowls since new closet bolts are way long. After they're tightened up, they're cut off so the cap will fit. These are the best drivers for that task due to the deep holes and close quarters. A must have in my opinion!
Take care, G.
Thomas, I thought I would feedback on the hook you mentioned. I was working on one of my properties and was changing out some recepts and switches. Sure enough, the hook was starring me right in the face. I can't believe I've never seen it before...lol. One less tool to grab! Thanks much for the info on that- it's now in my brain! Hope all is well, G.
+ghostses , You can do a Search on Amazon or eBay for "Klein Wire Bending" and find most, (even Discontinued), Klein Screwdrivers that have the Wire Bending Pin.
Here's what I found.
Klein Tools 603-3B #1 Wire Bending Phillips-Tip
Klein Tools 603-4B #2 Wire Bending Phillips Round Shank Tip Screwdriver
Klein Tools 605-4B 4-Inch Round-Shank Wire Bending Cabinet-Tip Screwdriver
Klein Tools 605-6B 1/4-Inch Wire Bending Cabinet 6-Inch Round Shank Tip Screwdriver
Klein Tools 661B Wire Bending #1 Square-Recess Tip Screwdriver with 4-Inch Round-Shank
Klein Tools 662B Wire Bending #2 Square-Recess Tip Screwdriver
+Charlie Warren
Thanks for the great info Charlie! Very helpful, G.
Great video G, I've always been mostly a Snap-On snob but since the truck never stops by anymore I've been looking for good replacement tools. Most of my drivers handles have failed me lately and they aren't under warranty so I've been looking for some decent replacements. Anyhow, I've had some Klien tools in my electrical bag but never looked to them for screw drivers. I'm going to pay more attention to them now. Thanks!
Thanks Larry, I do have a Snap-on cab chocked full of their tools- but don't need to spend the money on them these days. They are the best for sure, but as you know you pay dearly for anything sporting their name. It's been about 20 or so yrs since I left the auto trade. These drivers are a good quality for a reasonable price. They may not last as long as Snap-on- but cost only a fraction. Thanks, G.
Great info!! Thx so much!!!
Thanks and no problem! Good luck, G.
why would you use a bigger loop on the ground? Thanks for the great tips , thumbs up !!
Thanks! I use a bigger loop for two reasons. The first is, I find it easier to get a hold of it with the pliers to close the loop tight. The second is, if the receptacle needs to be changed later, it's easier to get it off the screw. Take care, G.
just another tip mate. terminate in ground, return and then hot. Better safe than sorry.
Thanks for the info Scott! G.
Most people cant understand getting hit off a neutral is worse than hot. Thankfully I've been shock free for 2 years. 120v of course. Never hit with 277 yet knock on wood. Maybe today hehe
Oddly enough several wire but manufacturers recommend that the wires not be twisted before applying the wire but.
That's true John. I still prefer to twist- then nut. Take care, G.
Did you snip that twist too short? Seems like it was no longer 'twisted' together on the ends when you put the wire nut on.
Yes I did! Good eye! Take care, G.
Great info. I like klein too.
Thanks Nelson! Yeah, they're good tools. Good luck, G.
Very Good Information, (didn't know about the Klein Wire Bending Pin on some Klein Screwdrivers). Your Voice sounds like Tom Bodett, (I'll Leave the Light On For You~!); and that's a Good Thing~! What is the Model Number of the Klein 12/2 Wire / Cable Stripper that you're using with one Yellow Handle and one Gray Handle? (Resembles the Ideal 45-249 12/2 NM Cable T-Stripper Wire Stripper).
+Charlie Warren
Thanks Charlie! It would be nice if I had a chain of Motel6's lol. I guess I'll just have to settle for sounding like Tom- or maybe he sounds like me- lol. The model of the strippers is No. 1012. The do look exactly like the Ideal for sure. Hope this helps, G.
Great video. I appreciated your demonstrations. Like the driver with a pin sticking out, that is brilliant. I wonder what clever electrical woodworker first discovered that trick, hahaha... probably fastened a nail in his driver and Dewalt got wind of the innovation.
+Jon Disnard
Thanks Jon! That driver is really cool. LOL! You never know how things come to be for sure. Someone was definitely the first in everything. Who they are/were- we may never know! Take care, G.
Hey I feel good that (most) everything you said I was already doing! The pin for making a loop seems like something to keep an eye out for. I want to leave enough meat on the wires in the box - but accordian folding the wires into the box has never really worked well for me. Can you show how to do that efficiently? Thanks
Tanks Steve! I'm not prepared for showing how to fold the wires into the box since I have nothing pending. I can say the folds are deliberate and aggressive. Not much help. Take care, G.
i'm a ready to expire electrian,45 years master license
That's sure been a long run Stewart! Thanks, G.
I've looked far and wide for one of those wire nut spinners by Klein and haven't found one. Where'd you get yours?
James, I picked mine up years ago at Home Depot. I assumed it was Klein, and it might be, since it looks just like their drivers. I dug it out and the only thing it says on it is "The Original Spinner". No model number or anything else. They may not be made anymore, but hope this helps nonetheless. Good luck, G.
They have them on eBay right now for $10 + $3 shipping... just search for The Original Spinner Wire and you should find it...
3dsman
Thanks for the info! G.
Don't you also have to pigtail the ground to the receptacle box or does just the receptacle have to be grounded ?
Dill, don't quote me but this is my view. In commercial applications with metal boxes I would say yes. But when using plastic boxes for residential use- no. Dig deeper as this is only my opinion. Take care, G.
My opinion on that would be, plastic on plastic, no jump. Metal box then jump it, just thinking of what can conduct, I'd like to see a plastic box and receptacle ground outside of that box, the home 12-2 that I do, I use that rule...plastic on plastic no box ground, metal box=ground it.
Anyone know where you can get the Wire nut spinner? Checked Amazon and Ebay….no luck cant imagine they quit making it. Looks like a good tool if you do tons of outlets/quads
I looked around Robert and came up empty handed. I guess they may have discontinued them. I know I purchased mine at Home Depot a long time ago. I guess I need to take good care of it. Take care, G.
The nut drivers do they have magnetic tips ?
+Miguel Angel
No Miguel, they do not. I'm not sure of the smaller ones, but the larger ones have a hole that goes down into the shaft. So you can tighten up nuts one a long bolt. Good luck, G.
Thank you for educate me a little bit more about electricity, i'm interested but so fucking scared of it. Nice to know when I'll be an home owner soon !!
+SOfilmable
No problem! Respect it, but don't be scared of it. Just make sure to turn off your breaker(s) before you do anything. Everything you would need to know is available online to learn to do things safely. Good luck with your new home! Take care, G.
my grandaddy works on live circuits too I try to avoid it but like you said if you know its on its no problem....its when you don't haha
That's very true Ric! G.
Does Klein make both flat and Phillips in that prong screw driver for shoeing wire ends?
And sidebar, in HVAC school we were taught that twisting wire together before capping with nut did more damage, because it fought the natural twist of the wire nut...
I don't know Travis. As for the nuts- just go with what you know. Its a debate that will be going till the end of time....lol. G.
hey brother have ever tried knipex tools. i like them more then my kliens
I have, but have never had my hands on any. I need to find a local source so I can check them out first hand. I like to feel any tools I buy so I'm reluctant to order online until I know I'll like them. I've have heard good things about them for sure. Thanks, G.
I'm telling you man. Once you try it you won't ever use klien
Emin HVAC Klein is awesome. Knipex is too (I use both - Knipex wire cutters are the thing). Only problem with Knipex is that there is barely any local dealers, where as for Klein You can get it at home depot. As for OP - use the attachment for impact drill for wire nuts.
kornaz N I guess you have a point there brother. It is very difficult to locate them.
I'm going to disagree with the push backs for the wires on the outlets they are usually pretty tight and the spring tension on the recep blades are going to wear out before those do. also you don't need to twist the wires together that was the old way when the wire nuts were not UL listed and weren't rated to make contact now you are supposed to let the wire nut twist them together just have to give it a few good turns after its tight to twist them together but I get what you mean if someone didn't really tighten them its a giant pain gotta get them big wire nut calluses lol great vid though.
That's cool Jonathan. We can agree to disagree on the push backs. When I was renovating our investment property, more than half of the recepts were dead and they were all installed in the eighties using the push in wiring. Most let go as I was pulling the recepts from the boxes. I'm sure they were cheap and don't know if better quality would make a difference. I just feel better wrapping the screws.
That's true and is written on every box I have. I was taught to twist, so that's what I still do. Just another thing that makes me feel better. I'm sure they work just fine if installed correctly. It's the limp wristed/incorrect installations that get under my skin..lol. Thanks and take care, G.
maybe a NC voltage tester is in your future. 😁
Actually my past Andrew....lol. Mine went south and I never replaced it. Take care, G.
You need to pigtail all 3 leads when two or more cables enter a box so that if the receptacle fails all of the receptacles down the line function properly.
That's certainly an option Brad, but as I see it- a failed receptacle will not affect the downstream. One might fail internally- but the screw terminals are jumped externally so the rest should remain working. The only way I see that happening is if one or both of the jumpers burned off. I could be wrong, but those are my thoughts. Take care, G.
ghostses it’s code here. Good video though.
That's cool Brad. Good luck, G.
Great concept, but I personally will NEVER use those strippers that strip the 14/2 and 12/2 Romex jacket. One job I used them on, I had multiple feeds and switchlegs slightly broken, either on the hot or on the neutral. I had to spend a few hours laying in the scorching hot attic splicing them. I don't know if the stripper was worn down or if I squeezed too hard, but I do know that from that day forward I never used them again, and I never had an issue again. I'm more comfortable either using a razor knife or even lightly scoring a point on the jacket and then ripping it off. Only do the second method if you have some experience and have a feel for what you're doing....BTW, I'm not one of those electricians that will say anything method I personally don't like is 100% wrong and say it's trash or whatever. It's just that I personally don't feel comfortable using them anymore after that happened. I shudder to think if that happened at a place where I couldn't get to a place to splice them....
To each their own I say Matt! Go with what you know and what works for you. I use them with a light squeeze and a slight wiggle to score the sheath- then pull the sheath off. I've had good luck with them for myself.
Yeah, if you couldn't get into the space to splice- it's game over and start over. Take care, G.
With the wire nut thing. Just twist your wires with your side cutters and put your nut on by hand.
*****
Good info! Thanks, G.
Why don't you guys just switch to Wago's like we do here in Europe... Also, i have seen a lot of videos where people strip the wire on the desired length for a wire nut and twist the 2 short ends together with a plier. That's the wrong way to do it. You should strip the wires like 6 inches and twist them together by hand for a tighter fit and cut them with cable shears.
You should always hook up your ground first, then neutral then hot. Good video though.
Good tip Daniel! Take care, G.
I can't be certain from this video, but that looks like a 15 amp receptacle. When using a 15 amp receptacle on a 20 amp circuit ( which i assume you are from your use of 12/2) you can not attach conductors to the second set of terminals to continue the circuit. This you mean any current drawn down the line will be also going through this receptacle. Just pig tail the conductors.
+Greg Herzl
Yes, it was a 15 amp receptacle. Not that it matters to what you're saying, but I use 12/2 regardless if the breaker is 15 or 20 amps. The UL listing should state that any 15 amp receptacle be able to pass a full 20 amps- so wiring to the second set of terminals should not be an issue. Pig-tailing is also a good practice. I'm not sure of the national code these days, so correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe both methods are acceptable- or at least I believe they were. Local might be a different story though. Either way, I'm not in the trade, so take anything I say with a big grain of salt! Take care, G.
I wasn't aware of the UL requirements for the 15amp receptacles. It has just been drilled into me to pigtail, even when running a 15amp circuit.
+Greg Herzl
That's cool Greg. There's nothing wrong with using pigtails and it doesn't take much longer to to, especially if you have enough room in the box. I'm sure there are tons that do exactly that. Like I said, I may be wrong here and there. If I am in some way, I have do doubt someone will be more than eager to tell me- no matter how small it may be...lol. Good luck, G.
I have just now put some time into researching it. There seems to be no national code requiring a pigtail to a 15amp device on a 20 amp circuit.
+Greg Herzl
Research is always a good thing Greg! Taking the time to look deeper into it says plenty about you. I generally don't take any one word for anything without looking into it. I try to find a majority consensus on a particular topic and go with that since it's most likely the correct answer- especially if it's not formally written somewhere. I know folks do some things in different ways and do think some of it has to do with it being passed down, and some with simple geographical location in how things are usually done. Are in in the trade, or wanting to get into it? Either way, if you are or do- I think you will be extremely successful. Especially since you picked a small piece out of this video, questioned it, then took it upon yourself to dig deeper. That's a good recipe for success not matter what you do! Take care, G.
I love Klein tools iam not an electrician but I work in industrial maintenance and have had many of my Klein tools for years. Iam also a cheap bastard and I hate hate hate buying something twice because was cheap and broke with Klein I don't worry about that :-)
Agreed Rob! Take care, G.
Dude! You sound like Luke from Mayer!
+Smith Jackson
I don't know who that is, but he must be one cool cat...lol. G.
dont klien insulate there electricians tools ? and they all seem realy large compared to bahco facom......i do like the twin and earth strippers though
They do have a line of insulated tools but I don't have any. I've never seen or used any bacho facom tools so I can't comment on the size difference. The strippers are great. Take care, G.
***** Good info Joe! Thanks, G.
00:16.19 Pet Peeves, AGREED, sucks when doing a job & open up a box, receptacle, etc...& you only have 0.5" of wire to work on b/c someone cut of too much or thought shouldn't leave extra, etc.... Swear, it's like you need 5 extra hands & fingers the size of a 1 yr old to get in here & work on the "project", one of my biggest pet peeves. Another knew I have, finished wiring a 10k sq ft school for all new outlets & Internet (ran cat 5e plenum) & had like 177 lines going into server room plus utility room & the people hanging drywall came in & put drywall over 2/3 main "pipelines" of all cables going to main setup with T the drop ceiling & literally cutoff half of the wires. Had to rerun half of the wires all over again & some of them were well over 100ft pulls(not to mention at this time all duct work, drywall, paint, etc...was complete in all rooms except server & utility rooms). Asked them why did that, said cuz ceiling supposed to be such & such height, whatever, common sense says for me....if that the case, lowering drywall .5-.75" to accommodate wiring, not big deal. Argh, some people.... So agree, would rather have too much extra wire to deal with, than barely enough & have to run new! Sorry about long story 😱😉
Yeah, they should've used some brains on that one for sure. Good luck, G.
wow
Thanks, G.
What home owners are buying klein tools for around the house? lmao considering they are on average $30-40 more than your average husky or milwaukee hand tools. These are for professionals.
But anyways, interesting hearing guys saying not to pre twist wires. I go nuts if someone doesn't Go and open a joint and it falls apart. I have never had a problem removing a wire from a twisted bunch.
Besides not even supposed to be working live. But whatever, where I started I always worked live. And joints not twisted were the worse. Open a marrette and you get arcing on the wires.
But whatever. I hate branch wiring rather just be on distribution or controls.
+Joe Chitussi
Me Joe, Me...lol. The brand, for me, is from my past- much like my Snap-on tools. The average person does not need them for sure, but with some things, I go for quality over cost- Klein being one of them. Milwaukee power tools would be another...lol
I'm right there with you on folks not twisting. I put it in the same category as using the holes in recepts rather then wrapping around the screws. Clean, bright, and tight is my motto for many things. Take care, G.
I'm a DIY guy and I eventually settled on Klein because I was tired of cheap tools. As he demonstrates in the video, things are just easier with new, well-made tools, even if I use them every other week. It's a confidence builder knowing that I'm gonna make the mistake--not the cheap screwdriver.
Plumbing: 7/16 and 1/2 nut drivers for toilets.
Thanks! Take care, G.
Great job on this video. Loving the strippers.
Thanks! G.
I'm going to hunt YOU down for pre twisting wires. j/k but It is NOT proper. It says right in the directions that pre twisting is not necessary. I understand the argument about wires popping apart when you remove the wire nut but that can be alleviated by simply holding the wires properly. Pre twisted wires make it nigh on impossible to remove one conductor from the splice when you are working hot. I realize its six of one, half a dozen of the other but I am firmly on the other side. Please fellow electricians, have mercy on those of us that have perform service work hot and do NOT pre twist.
+Flyingsod Wai
LOL. Yeah, I know there's tons of debate on which way to go and good reasoning on each side. I also know it says it's not necessary, but it does not say not to- if I recall correctly. I respect you being firmly on the other side, and know we're not going to change each others minds...lol. I'm going insert just a couple of my opinions over what I said in the video, again with no trying to alter your mind. Personally, I prefer to make a mechanical bond by twisting and not rely on the nut only. I believe the nut is supposed to twist them to a degree as it's installed "properly", and properly is the key word. It's been a looonnngg time since I've worked in the trade, but had seen too many limp wristed "nut jobs"..lol. Conductors arching and burnt up, nuts falling off when you open a box, pulling them directly off, etc. Now I realize these types of things were probably due to some limp wristed lacky not doing good clean, and proper work, but the problems did/do exist. Take care man, G.
I ALWAYS pre-twist. It's just the norm wherever I have been. Although with the ideal wire connectors they can actually splice the wires for you if you just twist it on ( I've only seen it done with two #14, so I doubt it can be done with 2 #12 or higher). I have done lots of service work on pre twisted hot splices and its not a big deal, just be careful. I find it to be pretty scabby if the guy before me doesn't twist, but to each their own.
Cole Beattie
Yeah, there's folks on both sides but I'm with you on twisting. It may have something to do with geographical location because it is the norm around here. Agreed, to each their own. Take care, G.
I have been an electrician for twenty years with the last ten being primarily in service. You sir do not know what you are talking about. I curse when I take off a wire nut and the joint pops apart. It doesn’t matter how you hold it. There is a very simple way to isolate one wire from a joint no matter how many wires are tied together. Wires should be twisted to ensure a good path for the current and to insure that if you are working hot and need to check voltage on a circuit that needs to remain hot, like in data centers, computer based businesses etc, you don’t lose power on the circuit by just taking off a wire nut. So called electricians who don’t twist their joints are just lazy, pure and simple. In all my years I have never met a good electrician who doesn’t twist their wires. The only ones who don’t do it are the lazy helpers who are just at work for a paycheck.
That’s my rant and I’m sticking to it.
Yeah. Whether you pretwist or not, the end result should be a joint. a joint holds ITSELF together, and has at least 3 twists of bare conductor, and two twists of insulated conductor after. If you need to achieve this by using pliers on bigger wire, fine, on small stuff the wirenut has plenty of force, but on 12 AWG my hands are not going to last all day. But for F*@ks sake, any joint that just falls apart is NOT a joint and shouldn't be used. If you can't work live because the circuit is people made, then figure out how to disconnect. Let's not drag the whole trade down to the lowest level in search of the easiest way to do everything.
Klein strippers Suck!!!!
Use Ideal with the curved grip
+Dan Serrano
Trolling tonight Dan? Klein strippers work great! Klein= Reality, Ideal= Chemtrails and tin hats. Which side do you really fall on? G.
Dan Serrano
LOL.. that's cool man. I've never tried them but it sounds like they're a good tool. Take care, G.
I am a sparky from Australia. Every time I see these ugly US "receptacles" - we call them power points or GPOs (General Purpose Outlets) - wiring practices and the use of unstranded wire (especially for the earth) it makes me want to cringe. And don't get me started on those ridiculous unsafe wire "nuts". A stupid unsafe practice IMO.
+Peter Triantafilou
That's cool Peter. LOL, I guess its all in what you're used to seeing. I think your receptacles look like MR. Bill...lol. I won't disagree with the nuts. That's why I twist connections to give them a better shot. Tons will disagree with me on twisting connections- but my attitude is the twist is the mechanical connection- the nut is to protect the connection from shorting out. Thanks for the post and good luck, G.
Actually the nuts are a mechanical connection, also the long debated twist or not doesn't matter, the wire nut manufacturer typically specifies how they prefer but the nuts are designed to secure either way now days. years ago 3M made their nuts to secure parallel wires and proved more surface area in the mechanical connection when wires were kept straight but over time they manufactured them to hold either way because you can't get an electrician to not twist the wires LOL.
real electricians will always treat a wire or circuit as hot.. will always pigtail all wire going to a receptacle.. a wire nut spinner what a waste of time all you need are your fingers.
+twig d
What exactly is a real electrician. I've seen real electricians, plumbers, framers, roofers, etc. and have seen good and bad work in all the trades. If real means doing it for a living, and maybe having some some formal education, I don't take real very seriously. I explained why I use the spinner so that comment was unnecessary. G.