Abstract: An urging apparatus is provided for moving elongated cables or like articles; the apparatus includes a support trough or shoe in which cables are carried, mounted to an apparatus housing which is reciprocable along a secured housing rail. A cable gripping element engages the cables carried in the support trough when the housing is moving in a first direction, and slips relative to the cables when the housing is moving in a second direction. The apparatus housing is attached to a power assembly which effects reciprocal movement of the apparatus housing and thereby movement of the cable. A plurality of such cable urging apparatus may be placed at spaced intervals along the cables to effectively move an entire cable without stressing or otherwise breaking the cable.