Question

[Andy17]

First, when you have an external phone extension, how long does it last before it would need to be replaced. The cable in question is about 14 years old.

Second, can a crackle on the phone be caused by an old extension as above to cause it. I say this because when i connect to the test socket there is no crackle present.

Can anyone help me with this problem.

[Brian69]

If the line is clear it the test socket, then the fault is on your side. If correct external cable has been used, it should last for years and years.
Before you replace it, check for loose/broken connections or damaged extension sockets. If all is o.k then check the cable, if the insulation crumbles in your hand, replace it.

[Andy17]

First can you say roughly how many years (10 years) and the extension cable has gone hard, as in if you try to flex the cable it does not really want to bend.

[Brian69]

It's hard to give a time, it depends on how much sun the cable has been exposed to, but if yours has gone hard, then replace it. I fitted an external cable at home, and it is still fine after 20 years.

[Andy17]

What does it mean if the cable has gone hard, and when the cable has been replaced could this be the cause of the crackle on the phone.

Was the external cable you fitted cat5, and does this make a diffence over normal external cable.

[Brian69]

UV light from the sun causes the plastic to loose it's flexablity and crack. Your cable may be your problem (I would change it anyway). I did not fit Cat5 it was normal external grade phone cable, but if you wish to fit external grade Cat5, then fine, so long as you don't kink it around bends it should last for years.

[RUNITDIRECT]

Also, check for "drip loops" as the cable is external-where the cable enters the building the cable should loop BELOW the entrance hole-otherwise water runs down the cable & through the hole-causing corrosion of the contacts. I doubt that will be your issue as this usually happens quickly but worth checking. It could of course be the IDC's to PCB connection on the NTE5 in which case replacing the front faceplate would cure it.........