"Eigenvector" wrote in message
. ..

"Doug Miller" wrote in message
. net...
In article , "Eigenvector"
wrote:
One question, when re-wiring an outlet, for instance to replace the old
useless Romex with clipped grounds, with fresh new 12/2 - how do you tell
where the wire goes? I mean how do you tell without hacking chunks out
of
the wall?

Why do you *care* where the old cable goes?

Run the new cable however you can, or however you must, to get it to
where you
need to get it. Disconnect the old cable at both ends and abandon it in
place.

--
Regards,
Doug Miller (alphageek at milmac dot com)


There are a few reasons why someone might care. One it's sloppy
construction, but that's not a big deal to me. Two, I would like to
recycle the old wire. Three, it would be nice to be able to use the old
wire to pull the cable run for the new wire - which is why I care where it
goes.

Fishing a new cable into an existing box is routine for old work
electricians. There are a lot of ways to do it. If you have attic access you
can try pulling the old cable out but it is pretty unlikely to work. A small
sash chain dropped down and a long wire with a hook will work most times.
You can get a little access around the box where the repair will be covered
by the plate. The best thing is a friend who has experience as an old work
electrician.

Don Young