1. Introduction
This manual provides essential instructions for the safe and effective use of Gardner Bender MS-1555 Cable Staples. These metal staples are designed for securing various types of electrical cables to wood surfaces. Please read this manual thoroughly before installation to ensure proper application and safety.
2. Safety Information
Always prioritize safety when working with electrical components and tools. Failure to follow these safety guidelines may result in injury or damage.
- Eye Protection: Always wear safety glasses or goggles to protect your eyes from flying debris during installation.
- Hand Protection: Wear appropriate gloves to prevent cuts or abrasions.
- Tool Safety: Use a hammer that is suitable for driving staples. Ensure the hammer head is clean and free of defects.
- Electrical Safety: Before working with electrical cables, ensure that power to the circuit is turned off at the main breaker. Verify with a voltage tester.
- Cable Integrity: Inspect cables for damage before stapling. Do not staple damaged cables.
- Proper Placement: Ensure staples are driven squarely and do not pinch or damage cable insulation. Improper installation can compromise cable integrity and create electrical hazards.
- Storage: Keep staples out of reach of children and store them in a dry, secure location.
3. Product Overview
The Gardner Bender MS-1555 Cable Staples are constructed from durable metal, designed for secure fastening of various electrical cables. Each staple features a 1/2 inch crown and a 1-1/8 inch length, making them suitable for a range of cable sizes.
Key Features:
- Recessed Head: Designed for faster driving and to protect cable insulation from damage during installation.
- Sharp Pointed Legs: Engineered to drive straight into wood surfaces without splitting the material.
- Versatile Application: Compatible with 14/2, 12/2, 10/2 NM, BX, AC, MC, UF, and other common cable types.
Product Images:
4. Setup and Installation
Follow these steps for proper installation of the cable staples:
- Prepare the Cable: Ensure the cable is properly routed and free of twists or kinks.
- Position the Staple: Place the cable staple over the cable(s) at the desired fastening point. Ensure the cable sits comfortably within the staple's crown without being compressed.
- Drive the Staple: Using a hammer, strike the top of the staple squarely and firmly. The sharp pointed legs are designed to drive straight into wood. Continue striking until the staple is flush with the wood surface, securing the cable without damaging its insulation.
- Inspect Installation: After driving, visually inspect the staple to ensure it is fully seated, holding the cable securely, and that the cable insulation is not pinched or damaged.
- Spacing: Follow local electrical codes for appropriate staple spacing when securing cables. Generally, staples should be placed every 4.5 feet and within 12 inches of electrical boxes.
Important: Avoid striking the staple at an angle, as this can cause the staple to bend or twist, leading to improper fastening and potential cable damage.
5. Operating Instructions
The Gardner Bender MS-1555 Cable Staples are passive fastening devices. Their "operation" is primarily during the installation process as described in Section 4. Once installed correctly, they function by securely holding electrical cables in place against a surface.
Ensure that the environment where the staples are used is suitable for metal fasteners and electrical wiring, adhering to all applicable building and electrical codes.
6. Maintenance
Gardner Bender MS-1555 Cable Staples require minimal maintenance once installed. However, periodic inspection is recommended:
- Visual Inspection: Periodically check installed staples to ensure they remain securely fastened and have not loosened over time.
- Cable Condition: Verify that the cable insulation under and around the staple remains undamaged.
- Storage: Store unused staples in their original packaging or a suitable container in a dry environment to prevent corrosion.
7. Troubleshooting
Most issues related to cable staples arise during installation. Here are common problems and their solutions:
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Staple bends or twists during installation. | Improper hammer strike (not square or too light/heavy). Wood surface is too hard or contains knots. | Ensure hammer strikes the staple head squarely and firmly. Reposition the staple slightly to avoid knots or dense wood grain. Use a new staple if bent. |
| Cable insulation is pinched or damaged. | Staple driven too tightly or incorrectly positioned. | Remove the damaged staple and cable. Replace the cable if insulation is compromised. Reinstall a new staple, ensuring the cable has enough clearance within the staple's crown. |
| Staple does not hold cable securely. | Staple not driven flush with the surface. Incorrect staple size for the cable. | Ensure the staple is driven completely flush. Verify that the 1/2 inch crown is appropriate for the cable diameter being secured. |
8. Specifications
| Attribute | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model Number | MS-1555 |
| Brand | Gardner Bender |
| Crown Size | 1/2 Inch |
| Leg Length | 1-1/8 Inch |
| Material | Metal |
| Color | Graphite Metallic |
| Application | 14/2, 12/2, 10/2 NM, BX, AC, MC, UF and other cables |
| Item Weight (per pack of 50) | 4.8 ounces (approx. 0.3 pounds) |
| Product Dimensions (packaging) | 1.5 x 3.75 x 5.5 inches |
9. Warranty Information
Specific warranty details for the Gardner Bender MS-1555 Cable Staples are not provided in the product information. For inquiries regarding warranty, please contact Gardner Bender customer support directly.
10. Support
For technical assistance, product information, or any other support needs, please visit the official Gardner Bender website or contact their customer service department. Contact details are typically available on the manufacturer's packaging or website.
You can also refer to the Gardner Bender Store on Amazon for additional product information.
