Steel Cable Ends, Connectors & Terminals
Tyler Madison has an extensive inventory of aircraft cable fittings, steel cable end fittings, wire rope threaded end fittings and cable lanyards. Custom, non-standard end fittings can also be produced for your specific mechanical cable assembly application or, allow us to recommend a standardized fitting to reduce cost. Contact us for more information on our aircraft cable end fittings, swaged cable fittings and custom cable assemblies that meet your needs.
Wire Rope Cable End Fitting Applications
- Lanyards
- Push/Pull Controls
- Release Cables
- Connecting Cables
- Restraint Cables
- Brake Cables
- Lifting Cables
- Release Pin
- Support Cables
- Tension Cables
- Throttle Cables
- Exercise Equipment
- Garage Door Mechanical
- Window Components
Stamped Eyes
Tyler Madison offers over 30 standard end termination configurations and cable eyes for common applications. We can also customize fabricate stamped eyes to meet your unique needs. Wire rope stake eyes can be bent to any specified angle.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | Hole Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc Plated Steel, Stainless Steel | 3/64″ – 1/8″ | .160 – .500 |
Ball End Fittings
Pull test strength of balls for size cable 3/32″ and smaller is 80% of breaking strength of cable. Balls for cable size 1/8″ and larger, pull test strength is 60%.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | Ball Diameter After Swaging |
|---|---|---|
| Zinc Plated Steel, Stainless Steel | 3/64″ to 3/16″ | .190″ to .442″ |
Ball Shanks
Used in lanyards, push-pull cables like throttle and brake cables, exercise cables and many other uses. Used for connecting, restraining, adjusting, etc. Ball shanks protect the cable from other attached metal parts such as strap eyes and strap forks. These wire rope end fittings are also used with threaded plugs as used in exercise equipment. Allows rotation of cable.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | Ball Diameter After Swaging | Shoulder Diameter After Swaging |
|---|---|---|---|
| Zinc Plated Steel, Stainless Steel | 3/64″ to 3/16″ | .190″ to .442″ | .112″ to .255″ |
Stops
Stops can be swaged on in the middle of an assembly. Used in garage door cables, security cables, lanyards, many industrial uses, drive cables, control cables. Many purposes which permit rotation.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter |
|---|---|
| Copper, Aluminum, Stainless Steel | 1/16″ – 1/4″ |
Sleeves
Used to produce a cable with a loop end or a loop end with a thimble inside. Can be used in many applications as loop can be sized to suit specific need. Used in lanyards, security cables, slings and many others for purposes such as lifting, restraining, supporting, and connecting.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | |
|---|---|---|
| Copper, Aluminum, Stainless Steel | 3/64″ – 1/4″ | * Available in thin or standard wall sizes |
Thimbles
Used in cables with loops when wear is a concern. Steel thimbles provide wear resistance, and greater strength, and keep the shape of the loop open.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | |
|---|---|---|
| Galvanized Steel, Cold Rolled Steel (AN100 type), Stainless Steel | 1/16″ – 1/4″ | * Available in standard size or heavy duty size |
Threaded Studs
Studs are available with right or left-handed threads. Contact us to learn more about our wire rope threaded end fittings.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | Thread Length | Overall Length | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Steel Zinc Plated, Stainless Steel | 3/64″ – 3/16″ | 1″ – 2 1/4″ | 1 5/8″ – 3 1/4″ | * Various thread sizes available |
Strap Forks and Strap Eyes
Used with a ball or ball shank end fitting, these fittings allow for cable rotation. Purposes include security, attaching, hanging, lifting and many others.
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Specifications
| Materials | For Bare Cable Diameter | Hole Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| SS in NAS and Commercial | 1/16″ to 3/16″ | .188 – .313 |
Marine Eye Fittings
Stainless steel marine eyes provide a strong, corrosion-resistant loop termination. Ideal for lanyards, rigging, and outdoor cable applications.
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Specifications
| Materials | Cable Diameter | Hole Sizes | Overall Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | 1/16″ to 3/16″ | .264 – .389 | 1.50 – 2.75 |
Fork End Fittings
Fork end fittings create a secure clevis-style connection for control and support cables. Made from stainless steel for strength and durability.
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Specifications
| Materials | Cable Diameter | Hole Size | Overall Length |
|---|---|---|---|
| Stainless Steel | 1/16″ to 3/16″ | .190 – .313 | 1.572 – 3.071 |
Handles and Knobs
Used in push pull and control cables such as in power equipment as release cables, throttle cables, brake cables, chokes, etc. Purposes include actuating, adjusting, regulating, rotating, releasing, accelerating, etc.
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Specifications
| Materials | Black Knob Size | Black T-Handle |
|---|---|---|
| Phenolic Resin/Composite | 1-1/4″ | 1/4-20 x 7/16 |
Standard End Fittings & Terminals for Cable and Wire Rope
Standard end fittings and terminals are essential components in the assembly and application of cable and wire rope systems. These fittings serve as the connection points between the cable and other structures, ensuring the end fitting stays attached until the cable breaks. Typically made from high-strength materials such as stainless steel, galvanized steel, or other corrosion-resistant alloys, these components are designed to withstand the rigors of tension, load-bearing, and environmental exposure. The selection of appropriate end fittings and terminals is crucial for the overall performance and safety of the cable system, whether used in architectural applications, marine environments, or industrial settings.
The choice of end fittings and terminals for cable and wire rope systems is determined by the specific requirements of the application, including load type, environmental conditions, and ease of installation. Selecting the right components ensures that the system will perform reliably over its intended lifespan while maintaining safety and functionality.
Find your perfect fit
We provide a comprehensive range of wire rope and aircraft cable end fittings, suitable for installation through hand crimping, swageless connectors, and our preferred and most reliable method: machine swaging. Most fittings are available in various sizes and materials to meet the requirements of nearly any application. To complete your assembly, be sure to check out our selection of cable hardware.
Need help? Tyler Madison is here to assist you in finding the ideal fitting for your needs. Contact us today!
Cable End Fittings FAQs
What are wire rope end fittings and what do they do?
Wire rope end fittings are mechanical connectors that are permanently attached to the ends of wire rope or aircraft cable. They protect the strands from fraying and create a secure way to connect your cable assembly to brackets, levers, fasteners, or other components.
What types of end fittings and terminals does Tyler Madison offer?
We work with a wide range of standard fittings, including balls, ball shanks, sleeves, stops, stamped eyes, thimbles, threaded studs, handles and knobs, strap forks, strap eyes, and many other specialty terminals. If you do not see the exact fitting you need, we can often source or design it for you.
Swaged fittings vs cable clamps: which is better for permanent cable terminations?
Swaged fittings are compressed directly onto the cable with a hydraulic swaging machine to create a compact, permanent termination. Cable clamps are field-installed and adjustable, but they are bulkier and more prone to installation error. For OEM assemblies and critical applications, swaged terminations are usually preferred over clamps.
How do I choose the right end fitting for my wire rope or aircraft cable?
Start with the cable diameter, required working load, and how the cable will attach to your mating part. Then consider motion, available space, corrosion resistance, and cost. Our team can review your drawings, samples, or design goals and recommend fittings that match your strength and safety requirements.
When do I need a custom terminal versus standard end fittings?
Standard fittings work well when your loads, cable sizes, and mounting geometry match common industry parts. If you have tight packaging, unique mounting points, high cycle life, or special materials or coatings, a custom machined or molded terminal may be the best way to get reliable performance and easier assembly.
Can you supply cable assemblies with end fittings installed and tested?
Yes. Tyler Madison manufactures complete wire rope and aircraft cable assemblies with the end fittings swaged, proof-loaded, and cut to your exact length. You receive a ready-to-install assembly instead of individual components.