Endz - Installation Manual
Endz are terminations for Extra High Strength cable. They consist of an annodized aluminum barrel and conical end cap. The tapered bore of the barrel is larger on the end cap end to create a wedge effect when a load is applied. Applications include, but are not limited to, support cables for tree branches and weak stem unions.
BETTER, STRONGER, FASTER!
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Necessary Tools
The tools needed to install Endz are commonly found in most arborists' toolboxes. A drill, a portable cut-off wheel, ratchet strap and cable grip are all that is needed. Endz are to be used with Extra High Strength Cable Only, not common or soft grade.
BETTER, STRONGER, FASTER. |
Slide the barrel over the cable end
Slide the barrel over the cable end with the larger diameter toward the cable end. Be sure that the cable has a clean flat cut for the end cap to rest against. A clean cut is essential to a good installation. A cordless drill with a cut-off wheel is ideal for this purpose. Endz are intentionally machined to tight tolerances, so there should be no burs on the center strand. File the sides of the center strand if they are burred by a cutting tool. |
Place the end cap over the center strand
Endz end caps have six sharp points that are designed to fit into the tiny spaces between the strand ends. This eliminates the need to unlay the cable to install the product. Fit the end cap into the end of the cable by twisting the points of the end cap into the strands, with the center strand in the center of the end cap. |
Seat the end cap
Push the end cap all the way into the end of the cable until the strands are touching the head of the cap. Drive the cap firmly into the barrel with a hammer blow to positively seat the assembly. Once seated, Endz are designed to remain permanently assembled. Check that strands are evenly distributed around the end cap. One end can easily be assembled on the ground prior to installation. |
Determine the best route for the support cable.
Using conventional cable guidelines, determine the best route for the support cable. Holes must be drilled in direct line with the load direction to minimize side load on the cable. A snug fit of the cable is necessary for correct installation and faster healing of the wound site. Since the cable itself passes through the stem, the hole required is smaller. This means less wounding to the tree than holes for eyebolts or lag screws. |
Thread the cable through the first side.
Thread the cable through from the back of the first stem to be supported until the preassembled end is in contact with the trunk. |
Let the cable hang while preparing the other end.
When installing multiple cables, remember to drill in the same direction as the load applied to minimize side loading of the cable. Notice how the cables pictured head toward their respective destinations. |
Thread the cable through the opposite leader.
Thread the cable through the opposite leader or branch. Measure the distance between leaders carefully to minimize waste. A few extra inches are all that is needed. |
Set tension in the cable
Use a ratchet strap with a Haven's grip or other tensioning system to set the tension of the finished cable. Standard guidelines for tensioning apply. Pay attention to season, canopy density, species, etc. At this stage, the installer can precisely determine the finished cable's tension and mark the cut on the cable end using an Endz for measuring the length needed plus an end cap. |
Measure and cut
A clean cut makes for a clean finish. High quality boltcutters are fastest and leave the strand ends perfect for end cap installation. A cordless drill equipped with a cut off wheel works, but is difficult to master.
The bore diameter of the end cap is only a few thousandths of an inch larger than the diameter of the center strand, so be sure the center strand is free of burs or bends. Tight machining tolerances are what provide consistant strength in any application. |
Assemble final side
Slide a barrel over the cable with the wide mouthed end facing out to receive the end cap. Using the points of the end cap, push the cap into the strand ends. |
Seat the end cap
Push the end cap all the way in. Release the tension on the cable. Strike the end cap with a hammer blow to positively seat it. Once seated, it's low friction angle holds the cap permanently in the barrel, even if wind should push against it in the opposite direction. |
Finished.
The results are as attractive as they are strong. Unobtrusively blending in makes for an elegant job that's sure to please even the most critical client.
You may want to carry binoculars to prove that a cable is indeed installed. |
Climber friendly!
Only Endz uses a design that leaves no exposed strand ends or burred thimbles that can snag a climber's line. Developed by a climber, for climbers! |
Ornamental applications
Endz are ideal for discreet support of high end ornamental plantings such as birch clumps. |
Maintenance
Proper installation, alignment and tension and will ensure a good support system for weak branches and trunks. Endz can be monitored from the ground simply by observing the end caps with binoculars. Slack can be adjusted easily by trimming the end of the cable and repositioning the original barrel and end cap. |
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