The Yale LMG cable grip — also known as the LITTLE MULE® cable grip — is a portable device for gripping, pulling and tensioning uncoated wire ropes, cables and metal rods, suitable for wire ropes with a tensile strength up to 1770 N/mm² (or 1960 N/mm² for the LMG II-X variant with grooved jaws). The parallel jaw design provides a firm, non-slip grip without damaging the wire rope. A special spring-loaded guide prevents the grip dropping off the rope and allows instant release without jamming.
Key Features
- Parallel jaw clamping provides a firm, non-slip grip on uncoated wire rope without causing rope damage.
- Spring-loaded guide prevents the grip from dropping off the rope and allows instant release without jamming.
- Tensile strength rating of up to 1770 N/mm² (standard jaws) or up to 1960 N/mm² (LMG II-X with grooved jaws).
- Wide rope diameter range from 5mm to 32mm across the four model options.
- Towing eye for attachment of pulling devices (e.g. Yale Yaletrac cable puller, chain blocks, lever hoists).
- LMG II-X grooved jaws are specifically designed for higher-tensile-strength wire ropes commonly found in modern lifting applications.
- Portable and robust with weights from 1.6kg (LMG I) up to 9.5kg (LMG III).
Technical Specifications
| Model |
Tensile Force |
Wire Rope Diameter |
Towing Eye |
Jaw Type |
Weight |
| LMG I |
2000 daN |
5 – 15 mm |
— |
Standard |
1.6 kg |
| LMG II |
3000 daN |
8 – 20 mm |
31 × 44 mm |
Standard |
2.9 kg |
| LMG II-X |
3000 daN |
8 – 20 mm |
31 × 44 mm |
Grooved (for 1960 N/mm² ropes) |
2.9 kg |
| LMG III |
5000 daN |
18 – 32 mm |
66 × 93 mm |
Standard |
9.5 kg |
CE Marked & UKCA Compliant — Important Limitation: Not for Lifting Loads
The LMG cable grip is designed for gripping, pulling and tensioning operations only and must not be used to lift loads. Fully compatible with LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998 Regulations when used within its specified operational limits.
The actual tensile force achievable depends on the diameter and surface condition of the rope. Optional accessories include eye sling hooks, longer ropes, drum reels, and storage boxes.
Suitable Applications
The Yale LMG cable grip is used for gripping, pulling and tensioning operations on uncoated wire ropes, cables and metal rods. Typical applications include overhead line construction, utility and telecommunications work, structural cable tensioning, marine and offshore rigging, civil engineering, and as a temporary attachment point for cable pullers. Compatible with the Yale Yaletrac and Yaletrac ST cable puller ranges. Not for use on coated, plastic-jacketed, or greasy ropes where grip may be compromised.
Grips are sized to a cable diameter range and tighten under load. See wire rope fittings for permanent terminations.
How to Use the LMG Cable Grip
- Inspect the unit before each use. Check the jaws, body, towing eye, and spring-loaded guide for damage, wear or corrosion. Do not use if defects are found.
- Ensure the wire rope is clean, dry, uncoated and within the diameter range specified for the model. Do not use on coated, plastic-jacketed, or greasy ropes.
- Open the clamp by pressing the towing eye against the spring tension towards the clamp body.
- Position the cable grip over the wire rope so that the rope lies centrally in the guide groove over the whole length of the jaws.
- Release pressure on the eye — the spring tension closes the jaws over the rope.
- Attach a suitably rated pulling device (e.g. cable puller, chain block, lever hoist) to the towing eye via a hook with safety latch.
- Apply load progressively. Do not exceed the rated tensile force for the selected model.
- To release, fully relieve tension on the rope before removing the grip from the rope.
Important:
The LMG cable grip is
not designed for lifting loads
. Use only for gripping, pulling and tensioning operations. A site-specific risk assessment must be completed before use. All personnel must be competent and briefed in accordance with LOLER 1998 and PUWER 1998.
Inspection and Maintenance
Inspect before every use, including checking the jaws for wear or rope-groove damage, the body for cracks or deformation, the towing eye for elongation, and the spring-loaded guide for correct operation. Arrange thorough examination by a qualified engineer at least every 6 months when in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Remove from service if jaw teeth are worn, the spring is weak, or any structural component shows damage. Clean after use and store in a clean, dry location.
Warranty & Support
All Yale LMG cable grips are covered by the Yale manufacturer warranty against defects in material and workmanship.
Downloads
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use the LMG cable grip to lift loads?
No. The Yale LMG cable grip is designed for gripping, pulling and tensioning operations only. It must not be used to lift loads. For lifting applications, use a properly rated lifting attachment.
Q: What is the difference between the LMG II and LMG II-X?
The LMG II and LMG II-X have the same 3000 daN tensile force rating and 8–20mm rope diameter range. The difference is in the jaws: the LMG II has standard jaws rated for ropes up to 1770 N/mm² tensile strength, while the LMG II-X has grooved jaws designed for higher-tensile-strength ropes up to 1960 N/mm². Choose the II-X if your ropes are modern high-tensile types.
Q: Will the LMG damage my wire rope?
The parallel jaw design distributes the clamping force evenly over the entire jaw length, providing a firm grip without crushing or damaging the rope. However, the rope must be uncoated, clean, and within the specified diameter range. Coated, plastic-jacketed, or greasy ropes may slip or be damaged.
Q: How often should the LMG be inspected?
A visual inspection is required before every use. A thorough examination by a qualified engineer is required at least every 6 months for units in regular use, in accordance with LOLER 1998. Records of examination must be kept.
