Tension Cables Using a Wrench
At 0:17 in
Pro tip: keep any tiny parts in a paper bowl so you don’t accidentally loose them.
What happens here
With the cables fed through the posts and one end secured, proceed to tension the cables. The video shows the user repeatedly applying an adjustable wrench to a hexagonal fitting located at the base of a railing post. This fitting is part of the cable tensioning mechanism, such as a tensioning stud or turnbuckle. Turn the wrench clockwise to gradually tighten the cable, increasing its tautness. Work systematically across all cables, checking their tautness by hand to ensure a uniform tension and appearance across the entire railing system. The objective is to achieve adequate tension for safety and aesthetics without overtightening, which could potentially damage the posts or hardware.
Goal: Achieve proper tension for all installed cables
Tools and materials
- Adjustable Wrench — For tightening the hexagonal tensioning fittings on the cable ends
- Cable Railing Tensioners — The mechanical devices that allow for applying tension to the cables
- Railing Posts — To anchor the tensioning mechanisms and support the cables
- Stainless Steel Cable — The object being tensioned to create the railing barrier