John,

A 2 conductor system can be converted to a 3 conductor if done properly.
Call in a professional if you don't know how.

Done correctly, a GFCI can be used in a 2 conductor system. Adding a GFCI
outlet to the circuit makes the circuit safe for you. But it doesn't make
it safe for your equipment - you need a ground to make surge suppressors or
line filters effective. The NEC requires that three prong receptacles
without ground that are protected by GFCI must be labelled as such.

Any existing wiring must meet or exceed any local codes and/or the National
Electric Code (NEC) that were in effect at time of installation. Any new
wiring, including remodeling work, must meet or exceed the current local
and/or NEC codes . The 2002 is the current version NEC, but the 2005 NEC
code book is scheduled to be released in October, 2004. Also, if you do
major work, you may be required to upgrade certain existing portions or all
of your system. Check with your local electrical inspector.

If you are worried about a fire, call/hire an electrician. Remember
insurance won't pay if faulty wiring is found to be the cause.

Randy

"John Moorhead" wrote in message
. com...
Folks -

I have an old Victorian, Circa 1868.... The tenants trashed it, long
story.... Anyway, most of the electric outlets are two prong, rather than
grounded.... I would like to put grounded outlets in, but I have only a
hot
(black) and neutral (white) No separate ground wire....

Would it be safe to install a 3 wire plug and have the ground and neutral
common to the white wire? Would this work and be safe? Only having 2
prong
outlets has been a PITA, and getting under the house to run separate
grounds
would be a real bit of work. Would bridging the ground and common
terminals
also work and be safe with a GFCI outlet?

I would appreciate any remarks from those that KNOW and have experience.
The last thing I want is a fire....

I was under the house yesterday and found some old andirons.... All of the
timber underneath is full dimension stuff, maybe even bigger....

Thanks in advance for any help that can be given....

John Moorhead