Cable control for a pull-out shelf

Step 6 Final thoughts

Nothing is perfect, and neither is this arm. Given that, what would I do differently?

First, I'd probably spend a little more time dressing up the edges I did with the bench grinder. They won't cut the cables, but I could make them look a little better.

Second, I'd probably run a wire brush over the entire arm. Again, it doesn't affect the function, but it makes it look a little better.

Third, I'd look into a way to tie the cables down without using the zip tie mounts. As I said earlier, the adhesive is eventually going to come loose. And they take up a little more room in the arm than I'd like.

Fourth, I'll listen to the suggestions that I'm sure to get from you readers. I'm certain that I haven't thought of everything here. As I mentioned at the start; beefing this thing up certainly wouldn't hurt, but I'm too cheap to custom order heavier C channel (to say nothing about how this would affect the ability to use pop rivets for the hinge points). And there's got to be plenty of other things y'all will think of.

Nonetheless, thanks for reading. I hope this works for some of you!

Comments

[rfreyhol]

Another option to prevent the edges cutting the cables is to use what is called "Grip Dip". It is a rubberized material used mainly on tool handles, but I think would work great to prevent the cutting of the cables.

[corencano]

awesome post man!!

they make zip ties with holes on the side to screw in with a small screw and you could mount it that way.

other than that, keep up the good work

[kws103]

That's an excellent idea! One of the problems with my approach is when I have to rewire. Cutting the zip ties isn't a big deal, but threading new ones through the mounts is kinda challenging given the access. But with the screw in ones, it would be much easier to just unscrew the cut one and screw in a new one.

Thanks for the great suggestion (and the kind words)!

[rfreyhol]

There are "re-usable" zip ties available now... you are able to undo them without having to cut and use new ones. Saves time and money.

[julienj]

Great idea, and nice craftsmanship! I have seen these used in large equipment rack before, but they are vertial rather than horizontal, maybe that would help overcome your "beefiness" problem after you load the arm with cables. (Provided of course you have enough room to turn the arm vertical inside your space.)

Very nice Instructable! Thanks!