[DAVE231]

Hi. Does anyone have any tips or suggestions for cutting BX armored cable without buying a special tool? I just have to cut two wires to tap into the line but am a little afraid of damaging the wires inside. Thanks. Dave.

[shader]

By cutting do you mean just cutting the cable or actually removing the armor to expose the wires? A hacksaw will cut the cable. You can also cut and/or expose the wires by squeezing the cable together at a 90-degree angle. Kind of like when you squeeze a garden hose to shut the water. This will snap the armor at the bend. Hold the cable on each side of the snap, twist slightly to spread the armor and cut with sharp cutter pliers. You'll have to do this twice if you need to cut to length and then to expose wires. Bend the cut edge down and use poly anti-shorting bushing between the wire and armor. These should have been supplied with the cable but can be purchased at any home depot, etc. When removing the armor to expose wires, do not cut the thin metal grounding wire. This should be wrapped around the out side of the armor. Also, when installing the cable into the fitting only tighten the setscrew enough to hold the cable. If you screw it all the way down it is possible to break the armor and short the wires.

[Lotta]

A hack saw will cut it- cut on an angle to the cable. A pair of metal snippers will work also.

[DAVE231]

Thanks. I used a hacksaw and was careful not to cut the wires.

[Borewyrm]

Bending it will work. I do not recommend it. Unlike MC, BX has a very tough armor. It is quite possible to damage the wire, more so if it is older, when doing this. Honestly the hacksaw at an angle is the best method. Well actually you would be better off buying/borrowing a roto-split tool.