Yale LMG Cable Grip (Little Mule)

2000 to 5000 daN Tensile Force | For Uncoated Wire Ropes 5–32mm | Parallel Jaws | Spring-Loaded Guide | LMG II-X with Grooved Jaws for 1960 N/mm² Ropes

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 causing damage to the wire rope. A special spring-loaded guide prevents the grip from dropping off the rope and allows instant release without jamming.

Technical Specifications

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.

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).

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.

How to Use the LMG Cable Grip

1. 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.
2. 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.
3. Open the clamp by pressing the towing eye against the spring tension towards the clamp body.
4. 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.
5. Release pressure on the eye — the spring tension closes the jaws over the rope.
6. Attach a suitably rated pulling device (e.g. cable puller, chain block, lever hoist) to the towing eye via a hook with safety latch.
7. Apply load progressively. Do not exceed the rated tensile force for the selected model.
8. 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

All Yale LMG cable grips are covered by the Yale manufacturer warranty against defects in material and workmanship.

Downloads

• Datasheet (PDF)
• User Manual (PDF)

Frequently Asked Questions