I'll try pulling the core through with something thinner, perhaps some coat hangar. I'll also try a shot of McLube. Great idea.

Yes, the core was taped to the fid, taped better the last time when I succeeded. Getting through the splice throat was really tight. I have two more to do and the first one turned out okay in the end.

I suspect the small diameter line is harder than larger diameter.

I'll report back after I do the other two splices.