Splicer/Wire-Cutter broken

[GraysonPeddie]

Hi. Since I was in the midst of getting the four twisted pairs of wires lined up in order to make sure I get continuous transmission between the keypad and the control panel (I do get "keypad missing" message everytime I straighten out and get it to work), I had to cut the wire off and cut the insulation holding 8 wires. But before I do that, my splicer/cutter broke and the metal piece just fell off.

My splicer/cutter came with the ColdHeat soldering ion (not a traditional one, but it's something I saw on TV commercial).

Is there anything I can do to fix this? It seems like I will have to buy a new plier/splicer at the Home Depot... Until then, I won't be able to use Elk M1 Gold.

Here's the photo:

 

[BraveSirRobbin]

I got the Greenlee version of that, from ToolBarn, though I'm not in love with that supplier.

Another thing that I do is get a very sharp razor type knife and lightly cut the insulation, then use my nails between my finger and thumb to "squeeze" the insulation from the conductor. This way you prevent "knicking" the wire.

HERE is another good type of wire stripper if you aren't comfortable with the above method.

 

[nightwalker]

I've been using this type or one close to it for years with no problems.

http://www.tecratools.com/pages/av/35251.html

you can also use the string inside Cat rated cable to strip off the insulation without nicking any of the conductors.

 

[Ranger Digital]

I've been using this type or one close to it for years with no problems.

http://www.tecratools.com/pages/av/35251.html

you can also use the string inside Cat rated cable to strip off the insulation without nicking any of the conductors.

Nite ,is that what the string is for?? I figure it was to allow for greater pulling ability without stretching the wires. But it makes sense to use the string to strip down the jacket. I like!

 

[nightwalker]

yep, that's exactly what the string is for. If i remember right cat-x wire has something like a maximum of 7lbs pull allowed before it will stretch and start to slow down the network by making the wire thinner in spots.

It's easier to use the string if you take your diagonal cutters and nip the end of the insulation just a bit to give the string a starting point.