Just realized a zip tie trick for tight crawl spaces that actually works.

Had a job in an old bungalow with zero clearance under the floor. Couldn't pull the cable through the existing hole. Tied a zip tie to the end of the fish tape, bent it into a hook, and snagged the old line in one shot. Anyone got a better method for grabbing a dead line in the dark?

4 comments

4 Comments

wesleyb203mo ago

Totally agree about changing your mind on fancy tools! I had the same moment last month in a tight attic. I used a lighter to warm up the zip tie first, then bent it into a perfect little hook that held its shape. It snagged a coax line I thought was a lost cause.

jenny471mo ago

Wait, did you guys ever try using a pair of needle nose pliers with a little heat shrink wrap on the tips? I learned that trick from an old timer who used to run cable for a living. You just hit the zip tie with the lighter, then use the pliers to mold it into whatever shape you need. The heat shrink stops it from slipping. Saved me so many times in tight spots where nothing else would fit. Your mileage may vary but for me, it beats trying to fish with coat hangers every time.

valellis3mo ago

What did you use to bend the zip tie with? I always thought those little hooks you buy were the only way to go... but honestly, that zip tie trick sounds way smarter. I tried it this morning on a tough pull and it worked like a charm. Totally changed my mind about needing fancy tools for that job.

kelly3853mo ago

My buddy used a coat hanger once, but it got stuck and we spent an hour cutting it out.