Persuader is shop humor for a hammer, mallet or large pry bar, the tool reached for when a panel interior will not seat, a box will not shift or a stubborn fitting needs encouragement. Asking for the persuader signals that finesse has run out. Apprentices learn quickly that it is never used on breakers, meters or anything with a nameplate.
Heard on the job
Guts won't drop onto the studs, hand me the persuader, and I mean gently.
Also heard as
- convincer
Related terms
Guts
Interior of a panel: the bus bars, breaker mounting and neutral assembly that bolt into the enclosure.
Tub
Empty panel enclosure, the steel back box that goes in at rough-in before the interior and cover arrive.
Channellocks
Tongue-and-groove adjustable pliers, named after the brand that made them a trade staple.