Even with proper planning, cable pulls can encounter problems. The most common issues are friction, jamming, and over-tensioning.

• Excessive Friction: This is the number one cause of difficult pulls. It's often due to insufficient lubrication, too many bends, or a conduit that is dirty or too small.

  • Solution: Use a high-quality lubricant liberally. For complex routes, consider using a motorized puller with a controlled pull speed. Always adhere to the 360-degree bend rule.

• Cable Jamming: This occurs when a cable gets stuck inside the conduit, often at a bend. It's usually caused by excessive friction or poor cable management.

  • Solution: Never force a pull. A motorized puller with an anti-jam feature can automatically stop the pull if it detects a problem. If a jam occurs, pull back slightly and re-attempt the pull with a lower speed and more lubrication.

• Over-Tensioning: Applying too much force can stretch the cable's conductors, leading to long-term failure.

  • Solution: The best solution is to use a winch with a tensiometer that provides a real-time readout of the pulling force. It ensures you never exceed the manufacturer's specified maximum pulling tension.