What connector is this?

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rookie4now

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We just failed an inspection because "conductors entering sub panel must be properly secured." It turns out, the inspector doesn't like the connectors from the ORIGINAL panel installation, he's fine with the ones we used on the circuits we added. I have 2 problems with this. First, I believe these connectors are original and were approved at the time of installation. Second, he waited until final to mention it which means we'd have to tear out sheet rock to fix it.

Can anyone tell me what these connectors are called and where to get more information about them?

Thanks
 
We call them tomic connectors. I think that they are called a two piece connector. All the major supply houses around here stock them.
 
All range and dryer cord assemblies also come with that type of connector which I immediately discard and use a romex connector. I don't like them. Are they legal......yes.
 
It looks like a standard NM, Two-Piece, clamp-type connector. They are pretty common in appliance whips and in some residential applications. They are listed for use w/o a locknut..

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Here's a spec sheet...

http://www.bptfittings.com/Catalog/...aspx?CategoryId=23&FamilyId=107&ProductId=643

If they have a UL listing logo on them, they should be fine for the installation that is pictured.
 
It looks like two cables...the connector may be legal but it is probably not rated for two
 
augie47 said:
It looks like two cables...the connector may be legal but it is probably not rated for two
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That's true! The example I posted is only listed for one cable within a certain diameter range.

Of course, it comes down to the mfr. and what they had the fitting listed for.
 
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FWIW I found this:

The new 650-DCS snap-in connector eliminates the need for locknuts and significantly reduces installation time. The 3/8-inch (trade size) snap-in connector is for use with one or two 14/2 NM-B cables, or one 12/2 through 10/3 NM-B cable.
Click to expand...
 
Keep in mind that even if they were legal then, and not now, doesn't mean you get to re-use them.

Also, ask for a Code reference for your violation. I still am amazed how many posts get put on the forum here about "Well, the inspector said....." and now they want to know if the inspector was right or wrong.

Ask for a Code reference. The inspector is required to provide it. If he/she can't, then they must approve the install.

Again, I will say.... Ask for a Code reference.











Once more: Ask for a Code reference.












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I'm with Scott,.. I don't take kindly to being failed for work I did not perform... It is an existing violation ,..if he feels there is an eminent threat to life and limb there are steps he can take,.. and they do not include failing the work I'm responsible for ..
 
I use the little black push in romex connectors.They are listed for two flat cables to be used in accordance to the code.Commom sizes are .500 and .750.
 
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Jim W in Tampa said:
That will not go over well. I would get him the required paper work on them and if used as listed he likely will back down. Or you could simply install the plastic ones. Like others i agree they are garbage but legal.
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Really? The inspector was there to inspect the work performed NOT something that was already there.

Sign off on MY work or write me up a violation on MY work. End of story.
 
I don't like those connectors either. But, I wouldn't fail you for it, unless you
added a new cable to the existing connector. Then I would ask you to
show me if that connector is listed for two cables. Doesn't your inspector
check your panles at rough? To fail you on final on something that could
have been easily detected at rough is just plain wrong.IMO
 
I am really sick and tired of the complaints on Inspectors from all of us. Me included. Have them cite a section number from the NEC or their local yocal amendments if they can't then contest it and be done with it. Guys and gals I agree some of these inspectors are out of control. It really digs my butt on the lack of code education from some inspectors. Trust me I know.
 
rookie4now said:
We just failed an inspection because "conductors entering sub panel must be properly secured." It turns out, the inspector doesn't like the connectors from the ORIGINAL panel installation, he's fine with the ones we used on the circuits we added. I have 2 problems with this. First, I believe these connectors are original and were approved at the time of installation. Second, he waited until final to mention it which means we'd have to tear out sheet rock to fix it.

Can anyone tell me what these connectors are called and where to get more information about them?

Thanks
Click to expand...

Are you saying that you did not remove an old panel and install a new one? That all you did was add some additional circuits to an existing panel?
If that is what you did he has no right to expect you to replace approved connectors unless you re-used them AND they are not approved for 2 cables.
 
rookie4now said:
Second, he waited until final to mention it which means we'd have to tear out sheet rock to fix it.
Click to expand...
I, too, think he's wrong, and I would fight it. Otherwise, you set a bad precedent. I'd challenge him to show they were not compliant when installed.

However, they're not that hard to remove and replace. You can make a slit in the drywall outside the panel just wide enough to get a slim straight-blade screwdriver in there and remove the screws.

Then the two halves can be flipped out from the inside, and replaced with a Raco Insider cable clamp. Of course, this requires unterminating the wires (or cutting and then re-splicing them.)

Whar's so silly about this is that I used to save Tomics until the Insiders came out, just because they could be installed around existing cables. (But then, so can the split pop-in connectors.)
 
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