[macmikeman]

This threadhttp://www.contractortalk.com/f5/3-way-switch-14-2-wire-45226/

The use of a two wire traveller when done in non mettalic cable, is not necessarily against code, providing the neutral from the same circuit as the energized common and travellers is used. Its an old method that is not used now, and is not a very good method, but let us get the record on it straight. It does not violate the code (at least up to 2005, I haven't bought a 2008 yet, not needed until Jan here).

[mickeyco]

Originally Posted by macmikeman

This threadhttp://www.contractortalk.com/f5/3-way-switch-14-2-wire-45226/

The use of a two wire traveller when done in non mettalic cable, is not necessarily against code, providing the neutral from the same circuit as the energized common and travellers is used. Its an old method that is not used now, and is not a very good method, but let us get the record on it straight. It does not violate the code (at least up to 2005, I haven't bought a 2008 yet, not needed until Jan here).

Draw picture.




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[Bkessler]

I have and will always do a "two wire traveler" as I call it. if the nuetral is already present at both ends. I also like to a do a dead end three way as well. I actually like to mix up my three and four ways as much as possible.

For a three way switch to work you need constant power on one odd color screw and the switchleg on the other switches odd colored screw. So if the nutreral is already present in both boxes, one box has the switchleg and power is in the other. All on the same circuit you can run 14-2 for the travelers of the threeway. and you dont need the red wire of a 14-3.
I hope this makes sense.

[macmikeman]

Originally Posted by Bkessler

I have and will always do a "two wire traveler" as I call it. if the nuetral is already present at both ends. I also like to a do a dead end three way as well. I actually like to mix up my three and four ways as much as possible.

For a three way switch to work you need constant power on one odd color screw and the switchleg on the other switches odd colored screw. So if the nutreral is already present in both boxes, one box has the switchleg and power is in the other. All on the same circuit you can run 14-2 for the travelers of the threeway. and you dont need the red wire of a 14-3.
I hope this makes sense.

Very good. Now for the disclaimer for others here who could get confused. This is ok for non metalic wiring methods. This is NOT ok for metal conduit wiring methods. In metal conduit you would have induction/ heating problems.

[georgiasparky]

I read the OP's message in the locked thread visualizing him trying to use the ground as the traveler...not a good idea.

[Tinstaafl]

Originally Posted by Bkessler

I actually like to mix up my three and four ways as much as possible.

Oh, so you're the guy I've been following around in those old post-war box-on-a-slab houses?!?

Thank you very little.