Abstract: In instances where it is necessary to install a pipe or cable under a road or sidewalk without forming an open topped trench through the road or sidewalk, it is desirable that the operating trench in which the installing device is positioned be as narrow as possible. This is desirable to avoid disrupting the ground adjacent the road or sidewalk more often than is necessary. The installing device is positioned in the bottom of the operating trench, and clampingly engages the actuating rod and forces it axially under the road or sidewalk. Short installation rod segments are threadedly connected into the installation rod in the narrow and deep trench as the installing device pushes the installation rod under the road or sidewalk. To threadedly connect the short rod segments into the installation rod an elongated rod segment threader successively engages the rod segments and is positioned in the ditch and aligns them with the actuating rod at the bottom of the operating trench.

Abstract: This invention pertains to a light weight underground pipe or cable installing device adapted for use in a narrow and deep operating trench. More particularly this underground pipe installing device employs a pair of laterally movable gates positioned adjacent the bottom of the operating trench where the earth is more solid to securely clamp the device in the operating trench to enable it to withstand the forces exerted as the actuating rod is forced through the earth from the so-called operating trench to the target trench.To accommodate the laterally movable gates positioned adjacent the bottom of the narrow pipe installing device, a pair of top operated double-acting rod clamping jaws, operated by a hydraulic cylinder positioned above the actuating rod are employed.

Abstract: To install a pipe or cable in the ground without disturbing the surface or the ground above the pipe or cable such for example as where a pipe is to be installed under a street, driveway or sidewalk, it is customary to place an underground pipe installing device in an operating trench on one side of where the pipe is to be installed, and to force a solid installation rod through the ground to a target trench on the opposite side. The pipe or cable to be installed is then connected to the installation rod, and the rod is withdrawn to install the pipe or cable in the hole made by the rod.To drive the rod through the ground it is customary to grip or clamp the rod firmly on opposite sides, with a sufficient pressure to force the rod through the ground when an axially directed force is exerted on it.