Trimming wire insulation?

[catch22]

I noticed that on my main panel the insulation that covers all the wires doesnt come inside the panel at all,would it really matter if it was in the panel by an inch or so,and how much should there be in an outlet,does it have to be cut back as far as possible.And just curious is this a fire hazzard,is that why they do it?

Thanks Mike

 

[Charles (in GA)]

I bring my sheathing on romex an inch to an inch and a half inside the clamp at the box. I have seen romex with a foot or more of sheathing inside the panelboard. I seem to recall something in the code on this but don't know where or what.

314.17(C) does require that on non-metallic boxes such as switches and receptacles, the sheathing extend at least 1/4 inch inside the box. There are probably other similar requirements in other areas (panelboard, etc) but I'm too lazy to look this morning.

Charles

 

[Falcon67]

I just cut it back as far as I can do it safely, without nicking the wires - or my fingers. In the panel board, I cut it way back to where it enters, and leave a lot of extra free wire so I can route the wires as neatly as possible.

Then you upgrade the panel board and they are all too short and it looks like hell LOL.

 

[catch22]

Ok thanks for your input guys!!!

 

[Kevin54]

The sheathing should be inside the box slightly. You want to tighten the Romex clamp on the sheathing and not directly on the wires.

 

[NUTTSGT]

The sheathing should be inside the box slightly. You want to tighten the Romex clamp on the sheathing and not directly on the wires.

Kept me from having to type it.