Overhead service splices

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finster1

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New Jersey
On a service upgrade what are you guys using for connecting your service to the triplex overhead. I know this will have many answers because I see many different types of connections, some legal and some not so legal, like finding guys putting 3/4" romex connectors and then taping them up. The mindset here is that the utility will cut out wherever the electrical contractor installs
And put there own, but with the amount of time before they show this isn't such a good idea.
Be interested in what you guys are doing. I have been using homac insulated splices on the lines and ctaps for neutral to get the ball rolling.
 
finster1 said:
On a service upgrade what are you guys using for connecting your service to the triplex overhead. I know this will have many answers because I see many different types of connections, some legal and some not so legal, like finding guys putting 3/4" romex connectors and then taping them up. The mindset here is that the utility will cut out wherever the electrical contractor installs
And put there own, but with the amount of time before they show this isn't such a good idea.
Be interested in what you guys are doing. I have been using homac insulated splices on the lines and ctaps for neutral to get the ball rolling.
Click to expand...

I prefer the H taps. Of course, I get them at a deal...I have seen lineman throw these away because the boxes are dirty and can't be read.

I really don't like the insulated splices unless the installer is vigilant in their installation. It has been my experience that these must be installed to lay horizontally only. If they are installed vertically, water will get in the splices and push the wire out of the barrels during the winter freeze-thaw cycle.
 
finster1 said:
On a service upgrade what are you guys using for connecting your service to the triplex overhead. I know this will have many answers because I see many different types of connections, some legal and some not so legal, like finding guys putting 3/4" romex connectors and then taping them up. The mindset here is that the utility will cut out wherever the electrical contractor installs
And put there own, but with the amount of time before they show this isn't such a good idea.
Be interested in what you guys are doing. I have been using homac insulated splices on the lines and ctaps for neutral to get the ball rolling.
Click to expand...

I'm guessing that you're making these connection while the drop conductors are live?
 
What does the PoCo say?

Mine used to say to use their, and I did. PGC's, or 'parallel groove connectors.' PoCo even provided them. Then the rules change.

Now it's "Let the PoCo do the disconnect and reconnect." No more tying off the wires to the building; nope, they get rolled up back to the pole. No more EC's cutting live wires.

I am given to understand that there is OSHA behind this, and the differences perceived between 'electricians' and 'linesmen' in the NESC.
 
When I change a service I temporary the overhead with split bolts and when the poco comes around they will will use the butt sleeves and crimp. And yes I connect it hot.
 
The PoCo never wanted us to touch the connections until last year I received a mailing asking if I wanted to receive free Parallel connectors and plastic covers so we can start doing them. I figure since they were bought out by a large foreign Co. the less they have to do the better there profit margin? This is pretty common practice changing this live but I can't believe with Osha coming down hard with all that they would even suggest it with supplying the lugs! I did take there offer though :D:D
 
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