ECN Forum Forums General Topics of the Trade General Discussion Area Connecting Service drop

spkjpr,
At least there's 2 of us out there. Jim M, we use those as well. I love 'em, and use them on all new installations. I've never thought about using them for a temporary "cut in". I'll keep it in mind the next time we have to do one.

I used to do a lot of residential service changes and my method was to use split bolts, and then call the power company to have them come out and do the permanent splice..and while thay are at it they could re-seal the meter ring.
In the situation that you are describing it sounds like it will be just your baby, so you'll be stuck with split bolts. Just be sure to utilize the separator plate that comes with the split bolt (Ilsco type SK)and cinch it down real good (without stripping the threads!). If this subpanel installation is something you can re-visit once a year for checking the tightening, then you should have no problems.

What is your opinions on the use of Ilsco ClearTaps? I have seen them used in some very large commerical installations and they seem to have worked very well. I have also used the Ideal Street Light Connectors for a variety of connections. They are a great way of avoiding bugging or crimping. Especially for instances where the setup is temporary.

Haven't had the need to use them, but they look like a real effective labor saver as long as they are in a dry location. Any taps with self insulating design are real time savers!