To our valued customer,
Welcome to Viewrail! We are very pleased to ship your beautiful railing system today.
We know you will enjoy it for many years to come.
Our goal is to bring you top quality products in a very organized package. This binder
is your resource for the following information:
• Installation Instructions for Viewrail cable rail systems
• Drawings of your project that were made in our office as we quoted your
project. In these drawings, the posts are labeled with numbers. You will find
these numbers on the packing material of each post, making them easy to
identify and place in your layout.
• Warranty Information, Policies, and Code Compliance information
A word to the wise: it is very helpful to lay out all of your posts where they will be
installed before you install anything. This step is important as it allows you to visualize
how the installation will come together.
Our mission is to create simplicity and elegance, and we can’t wait to see that become
a part of your décor. If you need any help, please feel free to give us a call. As a victory
lap, send us some photos of your finished project. We love to brag on our customers!
Blessings from your Viewrail team,
Len Morris
Fernando Sainz
Chris Roberts
Mark DeLeeuw
Shelly Rodriguez
Table of Contents
2
Installing Metal Posts
4
Preparation for Wood Posts
6
Tool Kits
7
Cablerail Installation Instruction for Metal Posts
9
Cablerail Installation Instructions for Wood Posts
11
DriveTite Installation Instructions
15
Troubleshooting Guide
16
Caring for your Stainless Steel
17
Policies, Warranty, and Cod Compliance
19
Your Layout Drawings
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
1
Installing Metal Posts
WelcometoViewrail.Bepreparedtotakeyourtimeandthinkdifferentlyaboutinstallingcable
rail than you think about installing stairways with balusters. You can do it, take your time and
make sure you consider each of these key factors before starting.
STEEL POST SYSTEMS
1.
As soon as your products arrive you should unpack them and check them for accuracy
and any damages. Note any discrepancies and contact Viewrail within 48 hours.
2.
You should have a post layout created by you or by Viewrail. Set all of your posts in
the locations where they will be installed. Posts should be no more than 4 feet apart.
Be cautious not to knock the posts over or damage them during the layout process.
Pay careful attention to the direction of the holes and location of connections for any
specialty posts.
3.
Run a string through the bottom holes of your posts to simulate cable. This process will
help you be sure you have good clearance from the nosing on your stairs to the cable.
Posts can be moved forward and backward on a tread to change the height from the
nosing. If you have any specialty posts or bends, run the string through them to visualize
the cable and be certain that it works in your system.
x”
x”
THIS IS A BIG DEAL
When mounting posts on stairs, the mounting
plate should be set back from the nose of the
treadadistancethatisequaltoorgreaterthanthe
distance from the nose to the riser underneath (the
bullnose). Moving the post too far from the nose
will cause cable clearance issues.
4.
Carefully lay handrail on top of your posts and check for angles, handrail bracket
clearances and attachment points. Now is the time to bend or re-shape brackets as
needed.
5.
Boltyourpoststothefloor,deckortreads.Weoffersomehighqualityfastenersforthis
application and we highly recommend them.
Itisimperativethatall4screwsaregoingintofirmframingmaterials.
DON’T MISS THIS
If a post is over hanging a nosing, then substitute a bolt, nut and washer and install with
a through bolt application. Use a level to be sure that all post are plumb. Wood or paper
shims may be necessary to keep posts plumb.
3.75"
0.25" Corner Radius
GRK brand 5/16" x 6"
hardened screws*
3.75"
0.38"
Hole
Diameter
0.375"
Extra
Block
2x10
2x10
NOTE: Always mount posts to solid blocking.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
2
6.
Layout all fittings and inserts beside your posts so you can visualize how each of the
fittings will be placed. Do not insert them into the posts at this time or it will be difficult to
run cable.
7.
Attach handrail to the posts. The strength of the cable rail system is in the handrail. If the
handrail is not firmly attached, then it can cause the cables to sag and the handrail to
come loose. There are several holes in the bottom of our handrail brackets for installation
of screws. Each handrail bracket should have a minimum of 2 screws installed.
8.
String cable with inserts. Double check that you have all inserts, and washers in place
before crimping. Measure cut and crimp the cable. It is only necessary to have the
fittings hand tight at this time.
9.
Tighten cable using our special tools provided in our installation kit. It is important that
you use the Tightening Tool when tightening the cable otherwise the cable will spin and
it will give a false sense of cable tightening. If the cable is allowed to spin it increases
the coiling of the cable and tightens, but it also creates a force that will try to loosen the
threads on the fitting.
10
8
Tension Order Diagram
6
4
2
Cable tensioning should follow the numbered
sequence shown to perform proper installation.
1
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
SO VERY IMPORTANT
10. Place the inserts into the holes in the posts. ½ʺ holes are drilled in our steel and stainless
steel posts to accept the inserts and should be tapped into place with a rubber mallet
and the wood block found in the Tool Kit. If the insert fits too loosely a small amount of
silicone will keep it in place. Occasionally a burr on the post or deformed hole will block
the insert, in this case you should use a small round file to remove the bur or deformity,
then push the insert into the hole.
11. Use a stainless steel cleaner to clean oils from handling the posts, cable and fittings.
12. Shrinking and expanding wood may cause cables to loosen, use the same process
described above to tighten cables after the first season.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
3
Preparing Wood Posts
Welcome to Viewrail. Be prepared to take your time and think differently about installing cable
rail than you think about installing stairways with balusters. You can do it, take your time and
make sure you consider each of these key factors before starting.
WOOD POST SYSTEMS
1.
As soon as your products arrive you should unpack them and check them for accuracy
and any damages. Note any discrepancies and contact Viewrail within 48 hours.
2.
Your wood posts and handrail should be mounted securely to your deck. Posts should
be no more than 4 feet apart. If your wood posts are more than 4 feet apart, we
manufacture an intermediate post for installing between posts. You will need to install
these first.
3.
Run a string along the side of the posts to simulate cable before drilling holes. This
process will help you be sure you have good clearance from the nosing on your stairs to
the cable. If you have any specialty posts or bends, run the string along them to visualize
the cable and be certain that your layout is solid.
4.
Make a template for marking holes in the posts. The holes should be 3 ⅛ʺ apart from
center to center. This spacing will allow the cable to deflect slightly and remain less than
4” apart. A sharp pointed object like an awl or a punch can be used to make the mark in
your wood post. Make the mark on both sides of the posts where the holes are to enter
and exit.
5.
Use a ½ʺ spade drill bit to drill a hole ½ of the way through the post. Go to the other side
of the post and drill through the post so that the holes in the middle. It is important to
drill from both sides of the post. If you drill through the post from one side through to the
other, it is likely that the drill bit will not be straight and your holes will not be straight.
Note on intersecting cables on the same post: You can have have holes intersecting at
90 degrees on a post when certain conditions are met.
The following WILL work:
• Tension Receiver and Tension Receiver if 1 of the holes is at an angle
• Tension Receiver and Tension Receiver (Post must be at least 4ʺ Square)
The following will NOT work:
6.
• Tension Receiver and Tension Receiver if post is smaller than 4ʺ square
Layout all fittings and inserts beside your posts so you can visualize how each of the
fittings will be placed. Do not insert them into the posts at this time or it will be difficult to
run cable.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
4
7.
String cable through with inserts and the washers. Double check that you have all
inserts, and washers in place before crimping. Measure cut and crimp the cable. It is
only necessary to have the fittings hand tight at this time.
8.
Tighten cable using our special tools provided in our installation kit. It is important that
you use the crimp stud holder tool when tightening the cable otherwise the cable will
spin and it will give a false sense of cable tightening. If the cable is allowed to spin it
increases the coiling of the cable and tightens, but it also creates a force that will try to
loosen the threads on the fitting.
10
8
Tension Order Diagram
6
4
2
1
Cable tensioning should follow the numbered
sequence shown to perform proper installation.
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
SO VERY IMPORTANT
10. Slide the inserts over the cable and into the holes in the posts. Inserts should be tapped
into place with a rubber mallet. If the insert fits too loosely a small amount of silicone will
keep it in place.
11. Shrinking and expanding wood may cause cables to loosen, use the same process
described above to tighten cables after the first season.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
5
Tool Kits
Our specialized tool kits have everything you’ll need to install your cable rail system.
These are contractor-grade tools that have been hand selected to make your installation
work as efficient as possible.
Cablerail Tool Kit (VR400)
Crimpers and cutters have clear purpose,
but our kit has a few unique tools. Those
are explained below.
Tightening Tool
Made to lie on the cable, the Tightening
Tool has teeth that fit into the notches on a
Threaded Crimp Fitting. It holds the fitting
during tightening so the cable doesn’t spin.
Wooden Block
The Wooden Block is used to simplify the
process of tapping in the Insert Sleeves.
Straddling the cable, the block provides a
more even surface to tap and prevents the
component from entering the post at an
angle.
String
The string provided is run through the bottom holes of your layout with your posts in
place, but before they are installed. This
exercise will help you know exactly where to
install your posts for optimum cable clearance on stairs.
DriveTite Tool Kit (VR440)
This tool kit has only the tools you’ll need to
install our simple DriveTite system. This kit
includes:
Cable Cutters
Modified Pliers (for compressing fittings)
Long T30 Torx Bit
Wood Block (for tapping in Inserts)
String (see description above)
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
6
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for 2x2 Metal Posts
Use care to keep steel tools, dirt and harsh chlorine based cleaners and acids
away from stainless steel components before, during and after installation.
Measure outside to outside
How to Measure Cut Lengths for Cable
1. Measure the distance from the outside face of one end post (where the
cable will be terminating) to the outside face of the other end post.
2. Based on which Kit you’re installing, subtract the amount listed below to
your measurement from the previous step:
Level Tension Kit (VR290) on both ends — 2 1/2″
Angle Tension Kit (VR294) on both ends — 1 1/2″
Angle Tension Kit (VR294) & Level Tension Kit (VR290) — 2″
KeyMount Kit (VR292) & Level Tension Kit (VR290) — 2 3/4″
KeyMount Kit (VR292) & Angle Tension Kit (VR294) — 2″
Threaded Crimp Fitting
Cable
Threaded Crimp Fitting
Cable
CRIMP TWICE
3. Once you’ve determined cut length, mark cable and cut.
CRIMP TWICE
How to Crimp Threaded Crimp Fittings
1. Slide the cable into the Threaded Crimp Fitting until it cannot slide any further.
2. Put the fitting, with the cable inside it, in between the crimper dies and
crimp the fitting onto the cable.
KeyMount Fitting
Cable
KeyMount Fitting
Cable
3. Crimp all fittings twice.
CRIMP TWICE
How to Crimp KeyMount Fittings
CRIMP TWICE
1. Slide the keyed end of the KeyMount fitting on the cable until the opposite
end of the fitting is flush with the end of the fitting.
2. Put the fitting, with the cable inside it, in between the crimper dies and
crimp the fitting onto the cable.
3. Crimp all fittings twice.
Tension Receiver
Guide Pin
CABLE
*** KeyMount Fittings require Viewrail Posts that have been designed with a
special hole specifically for this fitting. The fitting is simply inserted and
turned 1/4 turn. This fitting has no tensioning ability.
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
How to Thread and Tighten the Level Tension Kit (VR290)
1. Put the Threaded Crimp Fitting through the hole of an end post and thread
the Tension Receiver on the Threaded Crimp Fitting. Only tighten 4 turns.
2. Thread the cable through the posts and put inserts on the cable.
3. Place the Guide Pin in the end of the Threaded Crimp Fitting and use it
to align the threads with the Tension Receiver at the final post. Snug the
cables, but do not tighten until all cables have completed this step.
4. Begin tightening at the middle of the post and work out using the Allen
wrench and tightening tool. Tighten from each end so that the Threaded
Crimp Fitting is into the post far enough that the sleeve can be inserted.
5. Use the Tightening Tool to hold the fittings in place while tightening. Do not
allow the cable to spin while tightening.
Tip: When installing on an angle, crimp and attach the bottom end first. This will
allow gravity to help hold the guide pin in place when aligning and attaching
tension receivers at the top
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
Tension Receiver
CABLE
Tightening Tool
Allen
Wrench
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
7
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for 2x2 Metal Posts — Page 2
How to Thread and Tighten the Angle Tension Kit (VR294)
1. Place an Angle Washer on the Tension Receiver as shown in the VR294
diagram in the right column of this page.
2. Put the Threaded Crimp Fitting through the hole of an end post and thread
the Tension Receiver on the Threaded Crimp Fitting. Only tighten 4 turns.
Tension Receiver
Steel Insert Sleeve
CABLE
3. Thread the cable through the posts and put inserts on the cable.
4. Place the Guide Pin in the end of the Threaded Crimp Fitting and use it
to align the threads with the Tension Receiver at the final post. Snug the
cables, but do not tighten until all cables have completed this step.
5. Begin tightening at the middle of the post and work out using the Allen
wrench and tightening tool. Tighten from each end so that the Threaded
Crimp Fitting is into the post far enough that the sleeve can be inserted.
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
Level Tension Kit (VR290)
6. Use the Tightening Tool to hold the fittings in place while tightening. Do not
allow the cable to spin while tightening.
How to Install Steel Insert Sleeves
1. Make sure Steel Insert Sleeves are put on the cable as it is being strung
through the posts. Only apply Steel Insert Sleeves once all other installations have been finished and cables are tightened.
2. When you are ready to apply the Steel Insert Sleeves, tap them in, using the
wood block provided in your tool kit.
How to Install Adhesive Sleeves
Tension Receiver
Adhesive
Sleeve
Angle Washer
Threaded Crimp Fitting
CABLE
POST
Angle Tension Kit (VR294)
1. Make sure Adhesive Sleeves are put on the cable as it is being strung
through the posts. Only apply Adhesive Sleeves once all other installations
have been finished and cables are tightened.
2. You will want to be sure everything is secure because the Adhesive Sleeves
are designed to stick to the post and it will be very difficult to take them off
the post and reattach them.
3. Wipe the area on the post where the sleeves will be installed with a clean
rag. Peel the backing off and do not touch the adhesive.
4. Once you are ready to apply the Adhesive Sleeves, simply press them
against the post, applying moderate pressure for 3-5 seconds.
Adhesive
Sleeve
KeyMount Fitting
CABLE
POST
KeyMount Kit (VR292)
10
8
6
4
2
1
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
8
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for Wood Posts
Use care to keep steel tools, dirt and harsh chlorine based cleaners and acids
away from stainless steel components before, during and after installation.
How to Measure Cut Lengths for Cable
Measure outside to outside
1. Measure the distance from the outside face of one end post (where the
cable will be terminating) to the outside face of the other end post.
2. Based on which Kit you’re installing, subtract the amount listed below to
your measurement from the previous step:
Wood Level Tension Kit (VR295) on both ends — 2 1/2″
Wood Angle Tension Kit (VR299) on both ends — 1 1/2″
Wood Level Tension Kit & Wood Angle Tension Kit — 2″
3. Once you’ve determined cut length, mark cable and cut.
Threaded Crimp Fitting
Cable
How to Crimp Threaded Crimp Fittings
1. Slide the cable into the Threaded Crimp Fitting until it cannot slide any further.
2. Put the fitting, with the cable inside it, in between the crimper dies and
crimp the fitting onto the cable.
CRIMP TWICE
3. Crimp all fittings twice.
How to Thread and Tighten the Level Tension Kit (VR295)
1. Place one Stainless Washer on a Tension Receiver.
4. Begin tightening at the middle of the post then alternate up and down using
the Allen wrench and Tightening Tool. Tighten from each end so the Threaded Crimp Fitting is into the post far enough that the sleeve can be inserted.
Tension Receiver
Guide Pin
2. Put the Threaded Crimp Fitting through the hole of an end post and thread
CABLE
the Tension Receiver on the Threaded Crimp Fitting. Only tighten 4 turns.
3. Thread the cable through the posts and put inserts on the cable. Use the
guide pin to align the threads at the final post and snug the cables.
KeyMount Fitting
Cable
CRIMP TWICE
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
Stainless Washer
5. Use the Tightening Tool to hold the fittings in place while tightening with the
Allen Wrench. Do not allow the cable to spin while tightening.
Tip: When installing on an angle, crimp and attach the bottom end first. This will
allow gravity to help hold the guide pin in place when aligning and attaching
tension receivers at the top.
10
8
Tension Receiver
CABLE
6
4
2
1
3
5
7
Tightening
Tool
Allen
Wrench
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
Stainless
Washer
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
9
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for Wood Posts —
­ Page 2
How to Thread and Tighten the Level Tension Kit (VR299)
1. Place one Angle Washer, then one Oval Washer on a Tension Receiver as
shown in the VR299 diagram in the right column of this page.
2. Put the Threaded Crimp Fitting through the hole of an end post and thread
the Tension Receiver on the Threaded Crimp Fitting. Only tighten 4 turns.
3. Thread the cable through the posts and put inserts on the cable. Use the
guide pin to align the threads at the final post and snug the cables.
Wood
Insert
Sleeve
Threaded Crimp Fitting
POST
Wood Level Tension Kit (VR295)
Oval Washer
How to Install Wood Insert Sleeves
1. Make sure Wood Insert Sleeves are put on the cable as it is being strung
through the posts. Only apply Wood Insert Sleeves once all other installations have been finished and cables are tightened.
2. When you are ready to apply the Wood Insert Sleeves, tap them in, using
the wood block provided in your tool kit.
How to Install Wood Angle Inserts
1. Make sure Wood Angle Inserts are put on the cable as it is being strung
through the posts. Only apply Wood Angle Inserts once all other installations have been finished and cables are tightened.
Tension Receiver
CABLE
4. Begin tightening at the middle of the post then alternate up and down using
the Allen wrench and Tightening Tool. Tighten from each end so the Threaded Crimp Fitting is into the post far enough that the sleeve can be inserted.
5. Use the Tightening Tool to hold the fittings in place while tightening with the
Allen Wrench. Do not allow the cable to spin while tightening.
Stainless
Washer
Tension Receiver
Wood
Angle
Insert
Angle Washer
Threaded Crimp Fitting
CABLE
POST
Wood Angle Tension Kit (VR299)
2. Once you’re ready to apply the Wood Angle Inserts, simply press the prongs
into the hole, then tap in using the wood block provided in your tool kit. It
may be necessary to adjust prongs for optimal fit.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
10
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for DriveTite (PATENT PENDING)
Use care to keep steel tools, dirt and harsh chlorine based cleaners and acids
away from stainless steel components before, during and after installation.
DriveTight Level Installation
Measure inside to inside
1. Drill 5/8" holes 1 1/2" deep. We recommend a Forstner-style bit.
2. Place a 1/8" drill bit against the bottom side of the 5/8" hole. Drill a pilot
hole with the 1/8" drill bit 1 3/4" deep.
3. Measure from the inside of face of one end post to the inside face of the
other end post. Add 2 1/8" to this measurement. Cut the cable to this length.
4. Slide insert sleeve over the cable with the prongs facing toward the hole.
5. Slide the cable through the smallest hole on the Barrel Fitting. (see fig. A)
6. Slide the Cable Wedge over the end of the cable and insert it into the hole.
The end of the Cable Wedge with the red dot should be entering the hole
with a red dot. (see fig. B)
fig. A
fig. B
Cable Wedge
7. Press the Cable Wedge into the Barrel Fitting with pliers. (see fig. C) A properly compressed Cable Wedge will protrude approx. 1/8″ from the Barrel
Fitting. (see fig. D)
8. Insert the Tensioning Screw through the remaining hole in the Barrel Fitting.
9. Make sure that the 5/8" wood hole is empty of all debris and saw dust.
fig. C
Barrel Fitting
Cable
10. Start the Tensioning Screw into the pilot hole on the bottom side of the 5/8"
diameter hole. Drive Tensioning Screw in until the end of the Barrel Fitting is
1/4" inside the post. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
11. Repeat Steps 4–10 on the other end of the cable run.
fig. D
12. Tighten the cable alternating from one end to the other by driving the Barrel
Fittings further into the posts as needed. Start tightening in the middle runs
and work up and down alternately. (See Tensioning Diagram below.)
13. Press Wood Angle Inserts into the holes to complete installation. It may be
necessary to adjust prongs for optimal fit.
10
8
***The Cable Wedge should NOT go all
the way into the Barrel Fitting. If it does,
discard the parts as this will not provide an
adequate hold on the cable.
6
4
2
1
3
Wood
Angle
Insert
Barrel Fitting
Cable Wedge
5
7
9
11
CABLE
Tensioning Screw
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
POST
DriveTite Kit (VR297)
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
11
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for DriveTite — Page 2
DriveTight Angle Installation
1. Mark the location for the holes based upon the angle of
the stairs.
See Hole Drilling Diagram at right for steps 2 through 4.
2. Drill 5/8" holes 1 1/2" deep at about a 20 degree angle
(should be about half the angle of the stairs). We recommend a Forstner-style bit.
3. At the top of the stairs, drill 1/8" pilot holes on the
BOTTOM of the 5/8" hole. This orientation assures that
the insert will cover the 5/8" hole.
4. At the bottom of the stairs, drill 1/8" pilot holes on the
TOP of the 5/8" hole. This orientation assures that the
insert will cover the 5/8" hole.
5. Measure from center of the hole to the center of the other
hole. Add 2 3/4" to this measurement and cut the cable
to this length. We highly recommend using a string to
measure, then transfer the measurement from the string
to the tape measure.
POST at
bottom
of stairs
1/8" Pilot Hole
5/8" Hole
1 1/2" Deep
20º Angle
POST at
top of stairs
1/8" Pilot Hole
Hole Drilling Diagram
Measure inside to inside
6. Slide Wood Angle Insert over the cable with the prongs facing toward the
hole. Use painter’s tape to hold them
out of the way while installing.
7. Slide the cable through the smallest hole on the Barrel Fitting. (see fig. A)
8. Slide the Cable Wedge over the end of the cable and insert it into the hole.
The end of the Cable Wedge with the red dot should be entering the hole
with a red dot. (see fig. B)
9. Press the Cable Wedge into the Barrel Fitting with pliers. (see fig. C) A properly compressed Cable Wedge will protrude approx. 1/8″ from the Barrel
Fitting. (see fig. D)
10. Insert the Tensioning Screw through the remaining hole in the Barrel Fitting.
11. Make sure that the 5/8" wood hole is empty of all debris and saw dust.
12. Start the Tensioning Screw into the pilot hole on the bottom side of the 5/8"
diameter hole. Drive Tensioning Screw in until the end of the Barrel Fitting is
1/4" inside the post. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
fig. A
fig. B
fig. C
Cable Wedge
13. Repeat Steps 5–12 on the other end of the cable run.
14. Tighten the cable alternating from one end to the other by driving the Barrel
Fittings further into the posts as needed. Start tightening in the middle runs
and work up and down alternately. (See Tensioning Diagram below.)
15. Press Wood Angle Inserts into the holes to complete installation. It may be
necessary to adjust prongs for optimal fit.
Barrel Fitting
Cable
fig. D
10
8
6
4
2
1
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
***The Cable Wedge should NOT go all
the way into the Barrel Fitting. If it does,
discard the parts as this will not provide an
adequate hold on the cable.
12
Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for DriveTite VR298
Use care to keep steel tools, dirt and harsh chlorine based cleaners and acids
away from stainless steel components before, during and after installation.
DriveTight Level Installation
Measure inside to inside
1. Drill 5/8" holes 1 1/2" deep. We recommend a Forstner-style bit.
2. Place a 1/8" drill bit against the bottom side of the 5/8" hole. Drill a pilot
hole with the 1/8" drill bit 1 3/4" deep.
3. Measure from the inside of face of one end post to the inside face of the
other end post. (See diagram at right.) Add 2 1/8" to this measurement.
Cut the cable to this length.
4. Slide insert sleeve over the cable with the prongs facing toward the hole.
5. Slide the cable through the smallest hole on the Barrel Fitting. (see fig. A)
6. Slide the Cable Stop over the end of the cable and crimp it twice. The Cable
Stop should be entering the hole with a red dot. (see fig. B)
fig. A
fig. B
Cable Stop
7. Insert the Tensioning Screw through the remaining hole in the Barrel Fitting.
Crimp Twice
8. Make sure that the 5/8" wood hole is empty of all debris and saw dust.
9. Start the Tensioning Screw into the pilot hole on the bottom side of the 5/8"
diameter hole. Drive Tensioning Screw in until the end of the Barrel Fitting is
1/4" inside the post. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
Barrel Fitting
Cable
10. Repeat Steps 4–10 on the other end of the cable run.
11. Tighten the cable alternating from one end to the other by driving the Barrel
Fittings further into the posts as needed. Start tightening in the middle runs
and work up and down alternately.
12. Press Wood Angle Inserts into the holes to complete installation. It may be
necessary to adjust prongs for optimal fit.
Wood
Angle
Insert
Barrel Fitting
Cable Stop
CABLE
Tensioning Screw
POST
10
8
6
DriveTite Kit (VR298)
4
2
1
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
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Viewrail Cablerail Installation Instructions for DriveTite VR298 — Page 2
DriveTight Angle Installation
1. Mark the location for the holes based upon the angle of
the stairs.
See Hole Drilling Diagram at right for steps 2 through 4.
2. Drill 5/8" holes 1 1/2" deep at about a 20 degree angle
(should be about half the angle of the stairs). We recommend a Forstner-style bit.
3. At the top of the stairs, drill 1/8" pilot holes on the
BOTTOM of the 5/8" hole. This orientation assures that
the insert will cover the 5/8" hole.
4. At the bottom of the stairs, drill 1/8" pilot holes on the
TOP of the 5/8" hole. This orientation assures that the
insert will cover the 5/8" hole.
5. Measure from center of the hole to the center of the
other hole. (See diagram at right.) Add 2 3/4" to this
measurement and cut the cable to this length. We highly
recommend using a string to measure, then transfer the
measurement from the string to the tape measure.
POST at
bottom
of stairs
1/8" Pilot Hole
5/8" Hole
1 1/2" Deep
20º Angle
POST at
top of stairs
1/8" Pilot Hole
Hole Drilling Diagram
Measure inside to inside
6. Slide Wood Angle Insert over the cable with the prongs facing toward the
hole. Use painter’s tape to hold them
out of the way while installing.
7. Slide the cable through the smallest hole on the Barrel Fitting. (see fig. A)
8. Slide the Cable Stop over the end of the cable and crimp it twice. The Cable
Stop should be entering the hole with a red dot. (see fig. B)
9. Insert the Tensioning Screw through the remaining hole in the Barrel Fitting.
10. Make sure that the 5/8" wood hole is empty of all debris and saw dust.
11. Start the Tensioning Screw into the pilot hole on the bottom side of the 5/8"
diameter hole. Drive Tensioning Screw in until the end of the Barrel Fitting is
1/4" inside the post. DO NOT TIGHTEN AT THIS TIME.
12. Repeat Steps 5–12 on the other end of the cable run.
fig. A
fig. B
13. Tighten the cable alternating from one end to the other by driving the Barrel
Fittings further into the posts as needed. Start tightening in the middle runs
and work up and down alternately.
14. Press Wood Angle Inserts into the holes to complete installation. It may be
necessary to adjust prongs for optimal fit.
Cable Stop
Crimp Twice
Barrel Fitting
Cable
10
8
6
4
2
1
3
5
7
9
11
Cable tensioning should follow
the numbered sequence (above)
to perform proper installation.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
14
Viewrail Troubleshooting Guide
“My cable unravels when I cut it.” — Your cutters are dull and need to be
sharpened or replaced.
“I cut the cable to length you showed me in the instructions but it is a little
too short on one end. I think I should cut it longer.” — You likely threaded
the Threaded Crimp Fitting all the way into the Tension Receiver. Back it out
and tension both ends at the same time.
“It is really hard to get the threads to line up since I am doing it blind in
the hole.” — Use the Guide Pin as described in the instructions to simplify the
threading process.
“I tightened up the cable like you said, but when I come back a day later
it is loose. No matter how many times I tighten it it comes loose.” — You
probably “wound up” the cable. If the cable spins and winds up, overnight it
will unwind and loosen. When you tighten the cable make sure that you use the
Tightening Tool to hold the crimp fitting so that the cable does not spin while
you tighten the Tension Receiver.
“How do I get the Steel Insert Sleeves out without scratching my post?” —
Use a plastic putty knife to carefully pry them out.
“How do I get the Steel Insert Sleeves to stay in the holes? (I may have put
them in and taken them out a few times.)” — The Steel Insert Sleeves have a
very small lip that may get rolled over after several uses. Apply a small amount
of silicone, put the insert back in, and apply some painters tape on the inserts
until the silicone sets up.
“The Adhesive Sleeve isn’t sticking to the post. It keeps falling off.” — If
the post is dirty or fingers touch the adhesive, then the adhesive may not hold
to the post. A small amount of superglue can be used to reattach Adhesive
Sleeves.
DriveTite Troubleshooting
“I am really struggling to run the screw into the wood posts.”
a. If you use a paddle bit or spade bit or twist bit, then you will get a round
bottom hole with a point in the center. This will cause your screw to want to
move to the center of the hole and will cause it to bind. Drill the hole with a
Forstner style bit to get a flat bottom.
b. The T25 has a 6″ extension. Be sure to use the 6″ extension so that your
drill has a better angle for running in the screws.
c. If you are using a large drill it will make the angle difficult for running in the
screw. Try a compact screw gun.
d. If you are going into a hard wood, you must pre-drill the hole for the screw.
“The Insert Sleeve doesn’t cover the hole on an angle.”
a. You may have installed the Barrel Fitting upside down, see drawings on the
instruction sheet to confirm proper installation.
b. You may have drilled the 5/8″ hole at too steep of an angle. Drill the holes
about 20 degrees or 1/2 the angle of the stairway.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
15
Caring for Your Stainless Steel
To keep your stainless steel looking great for years to come, please
carefully follow these simple steps:
Clean, clean, clean!
Cleaning and sealing your stainless steel Viewrail system after installation
is the best investment you can make into the lasting beauty of this elegant
railing.
If the work site is still active after your system is installed, rinse stainless
steel thoroughly with water to remove any surface contaminates. (A
pressure washer is great for this task!) Once thoroughly rinsed, cover
your system, if possible, until all work on the site is complete. The goal
is to protect the stainless steel from any airborne iron particles or harsh
chemicals that can cause discoloration.
Once all work on the site is complete, uncover your system and give
it another healthy rinsing. We highly recommend applying Marine 31™
Stainless Steel Liquid Polish followed by Marine 31™ Stainless Steel Liquid
Sealant. If you didn’t order these products with your system, contact your
Viewrail salesperson for ordering information.
IMPORTANT: Polish must be rinsed away completely before application of
the sealant. This requires a substantial amount
of water. An extra step that can be taken to ensure all of the
polish has been removed is to wipe the stainless steel down
with rubbing alcohol.
For addition tips on cleaning and installation, visit our YouTube channel at:
http://www.youtube.com/user/Viewrail
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
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Policies
Returns
Viewrail only accepts returns on cable components. Posts, cable and installation tool kits are not able to be returned.
Customer has 90 days in order return components.
Please call 574­-742-­1030 to request a RGA number. This number will begin with “VRR”. The “VRR” number must appear
on the outside of the box. All returns MUST have a “VRR” number. No returns will be accepted without a “VRR” number.
You are financially responsible for packaging and shipping the items back to us.
All returns will be accessed a 40% restocking fee.
Credit will only be given for cable components that are in new condition and have not been crimped or damaged in any
way. Components must be in original packaging and in resellable condition.
Damages/Shortages/Discrepancies
Please inspect all packages at the time of the delivery. A packing list is included in the shipment. Please verify the count
with the packing list.
Customers MUST verify the count against the packing list prior to removing the shipment from the dealer’s facility.
If no packing list is found, please call us immediately and one will be emailed or faxed to you.
Any damages, shortages or discrepancies must be reported within the first 48 hours of delivery. Call and report the problem
to us. You will be asked to take digital photos of any problem items and email them to us. We will work diligently to resolve
any issue with the shipment.
Orders
The order is placed against a materials list, not a specific job. It is possible that more or fewer items may be needed once
the contractor begins installation.
Any additional items needed are the customer’s financial responsibility.
Any returns for too many items ordered must follow the Returns policy listed above.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
17
Viewrail Stainless Steel Cable and Fittings 10 Year Warranty
Viewrail warrants that all Viewrail stainless steel cable and fittings shall be free from defects in material and workmanship under normal
use, conditions, installation and maintenance in accordance with product specifications for ten (10) years from date of purchase.
Conditions:
1. This warranty excludes normal weathering, scratching, tarnishing or product failure caused by exposure to corrosive elements or
atmospheric contaminates (e.g. salt spray/air, chemical fumes, pollution, etc), negligence, abuse, vandalism, alteration, accident,
shipping, improper maintenance, improper use, improper installation, or acts of God or other causes beyond the control of Viewrail.
2. Buyer shall give Viewrail prompt written notice upon discovery of any such defect. Upon receipt of such notice, Viewrail reserves the
right to inspect the product under claim and at its sole option determine whether to repair or replace said product or refund the
Buyer the full purchase value of the product. This shall be Buyer’s sole and exclusive remedy under this agreement.
3. This warranty only covers the costs of defective materials, not the costs of shipping, reinstallation, work displaced, or other incidental
costs associated with any warranty claim.
4. Warranty applies only to the original buyers who purchased the product directly from Viewrail. A copy of the original receipt or invoice
is required for any claim.
5. To the fullest extent permitted by law, Viewrail’s liability for any and all injuries, claims, losses, expenses or damages whatsoever,
including any special, indirect, incidental or consequential damages, arising out of or in any way related to this agreement (including but not limited to Viewrail’s negligence, strict liability, breach of contract or breach of warranty) shall be limited to the sole and
exclusive remedy specified above.
6. Except as specifically provided herein, Viewrail makes no other warranties, expressed or implied.
All claims are to be made in writing and addressed to Viewrail, 1722 Eisenhower Dr. North, Goshen, IN 46526.
Any questions or concerns may be answered by telephone at 574-975-0288.
Code Compliance Information
Code Compliance For 200lb Force on a Handrail or Guardrail in Any Direction
Viewrail posts are engineered and tested to exceed the 200 lb. Force Code when properly installed. We submitted a post to Graham
Engineering in Nappanee, Indiana. Doug Graham’s calculations (as well as our own in-house tests) showed repeatedly that the fastener
is the weakest part of the system that we provide. But the fasteners aren’t weak. Installed correctly the fasteners exceed the 200 lbs. with
a safety margin of over 200%. The shear strength in LBF for our 5/16ʺ × 4ʺ screws is 2948. The weak point in post installation is moved
farther down into the deck structure which we do not provide and have not controls. The critical piece is the lumber where the screws are
inserted. Lumber should have properties that meet or exceed those of Southern Yellow Pine. Each screw should be pre-drilled to avoid
splitting the wood. A 7/32” drill bit is recommended. The screws must be inserted into wood for the full length of the screw, a minimum of
2×6 is recommended. In most cases extra blocking must be installed prior to installation of posts so that 4 screws can be inserted into the
deck structure. The blocking must meet or exceed the screw holding Southern Yellow Pine and it must be adequately attached to the deck
sctructure.
In addition to the 200 lb. Force Code, installers should be concerned with the quality of fastener selected for corrosion resistance. We offer
both a coated fastener and a stainless steel fastener. Both of these fasteners meet the IRC code AC257. The AC257 is the updated code
related to the corrosive properties of ACQ treated lumber. It is very important that any fastener used meets or exceed AC257.
Code Compliance for 4ʺ Sphere
Meeting the 4ʺ sphere rule means that cables should be spaced on the standard spacing provided in the viewrail posts. The standard
spacing is 3 ⅛ʺ O.C. which allows a reasonable amount of deflection of the cable when the posts are spaced no more than 4’ apart. When
laying out a deck or balcony it is tempting to space posts farther than 4’ apart, however the deflection of the cable increases dramatically
and it cannot be overcome with increased tension. Do not place posts more than 4’ apart and do not space cables more than 3 ⅛ʺ apart to
conform to the 4ʺ sphere rule. Often posts are placed adjacent to each other for a dual corner. When placing two posts in a corner, be sure
to place them no more than 4ʺ from each other.
Call 574-742-1030 or visit www.viewrailsystems.com
Version 1 — 2-23-2016
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