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1.7.4 Repair a Buried Drop
There are many scenarios where cable is cut, in these circumstances buried drop repair is required. In this
section we’ll simulate the buried drop repair experience. Splice kits are used for physical damage, in
particular they can be used to extend temporary buried drops (above ground ) or repair cut and damaged
drops. In this demo we will take a look at splicing 6 pair buried drop using a splice kit.
Process – 6 Pair drop splicing
1. Ring the cable approximately 6" from end. Bend to break the sheath and pull off sheath.
Note – Items 1,2,3 and 5 to be performed on both free ends of drop.
2. Locate the pull string and with needle nose pliers pull open the sheath approximately two inches.
3. Gently pull the wire out of the sheath and with the pliers' flair the sheath to expose the metallic shield.
4. Punch a hole in the sheathing of the drops and attach a “coin stud” or bond clamp between the two flared
sheath ends. Tighten with a standard "can" wrench securely.
Note – Brace the connector with your thumb on the opposite side to the turning can wrench, to help prevent
the metal cable sheaths from cracking.
5. Remove the plastic shield (Mylar) and string from around the cable pairs, clean and wrap the pairs with
electrical tape to provide protection from chaffing against the clamp. Continue to wrap the electrical tape
around the end of the cables to keep the tape in place on the pairs and seal the end of the cable. Ensure the
coin stud/bond clamp is taped over to prevent possible ground faults
6. Splice the 6 pairs of wires with Scotchlok connectors. Take care not to “split” the pairs. Fold spliced wires
towards the bond clamp, but not touching.
7. Insert the two free drop ends into the guide slots of the base of the splice kit. Fillers are supplied for
smaller gauge drops. Cut off the clamp arrangement atop the base and discard. Slide the base towards the
bond clamp to about one inch or until tight.
8. Screw the top gel filled cap on to the base ensuring it reaches the end of the cap. It is normal and desired
for the gel to be displaced and “ooze” from the holes at the bottom of the base.
9. Bind the two drops together below the splice base with electrical tape to keep base in place.
Figure 59: 25 Pair CELFIL Buried wire for BDO Conduit fitting