Im looking at running a electrical wire 2,000 down a driveway( long I know) to operate gate, lighting and cameras. I believe direct burial cable is to be buried 24". Can a subsoiler trench this depth/ do this task.? if so what are the options of manufacturers. Anyone done this before?
using sub soiler to bury direct burial wire
- Thread starter Paulynuts
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RickB
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24" will be a stretch for just about any Cat 1 subsoiler. Running that deep without multiple passes to attain that depth will be even more of a stretch for your L4701. Check your local code, you may well find 18" is sufficient.
workinonit
Elite Member
If you can find one with a 24" shank it would work. How do you plan to set it up to feed the cable? I've done a ton of water lines and electrical conduit with one but I don't think Ive ever just buried the cable with one.
Diggin It
Super Star Member
Maybe if you have sand or other soft soil, no rocks, roots, hardpan, clay or other obstructions.
I'd be looking to rent a trencher.
I'd be looking to rent a trencher.
inpo44
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I used a King Cutter middle buster to do some of my 120v gfi protected underground circuits and it struggled to get to the required 12 inch depth. I am also looking at gate power options for my place with a distance of 1300 feet. The voltage drop considerations drive the cable size to extremely large sizes. It makes the solar/battery options look pretty good. Good luck with your project.
fishdrivel
Gold Member
You can rent a vibratory plow. That or a trencher are the "correct" way of installing.
If you "drag" your cable in, you are very likely to damage the cable.
I have installed miles of cable with a plow.
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workinonit
Elite Member
I agree with renting the proper equipment but you don't have to "drag" it in. They make feeders to go on the subsoiler shanks.
mcfarmall
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And a suitable feeder is easy to make yourself!
workinonit
Elite Member
Absolutely. I made mine.
fishdrivel
Gold Member
2000 feet of cable is very expensive. A vibratory plow leaves a small tunnel that puts very little pressure on the cable. It can easily install at 24" deep and there is virtually no clean-up. You won't destroy your driveway.
2000 feet is also a lot of voltage drop. The cable must be correctly sized.
2000 feet of #4 is a lot of money. Have you considered solar?
What voltage and amps will you be drawing?
