NOTE: Most elements are pre-stretched. However, you may still need to slightly stretch your elements because the springiness of the wire may have shortened the coils.
FOR UNSTRETCHED ELEMENTS:
- Mark the floor with two marks for stretched length. Have a helper stand on the tail of one element, and pull the other tail until the element is the proper length. The assistant must stand very firmly because a flying element could cause severe injuries (WEAR SAFETY GLASSES WHEN DOING THIS). Alternately, clamp the end to something with vice-grips.
- Initially stretch element about 50% of length of its final fully stretched length. Examine for evenness of stretch. Selectively stretch close wound sections to provide uniformity of stretch.
- Repeat this procedure several times.
- You will have to pull element beyond last mark in order to obtain full stretch.
- If overstretch occurs insert a metal rod or small diameter dowel into the element coil and compress with needle nose pliers.
- Stretch uniformity is necessary for satisfactory element life.