How to Tighten Steel Cable in Fences

The best way to tighten the steel cables of a fence is by using a tool called a comealong. This is essentially a winch that attaches to the first fence pole in a row. It is particularly useful for stringing electric or barbed wire fences as it allows you to place tension onto the wires, leave the tool fixed in place and then secure the fence wire without assistance. Comealongs are available at farm supply retailers and home and garden stores.

Manual comealong winch
Fence mounting hardware

Instructions

- 1
  Attach the fixed connector for the comealong to the last fence post in the row. Many comealongs use a chain or strap, so you can loop the strap over the fencepost if needed.
- 2
  Bend a loop into the steel cable for the fence and attach the other end of the comealong to it. On some comealongs, you can insert the cable directly into the ratchet handle's axle to tighten it. This will be apparent if you have the type of comealong that this can be done with.
- 3
  Ratchet the comealong's handle until the fence cable is taught but not tight. Adjust the height of the comealong on the first fence post by sliding it up or down the length of the fence post as needed. When the comealong is properly positioned, tighten the ratchet until the slack is taken out of the fence cable.
- 4
  Secure the cable to the remaining fence posts with the necessary hardware specific to the type and size of cable being used for fencing.

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