Okay, let's break this down and look at your options for protecting that 1 AWG SER cable.

Understanding the Problem

You're running 1 AWG SER cable through potentially vulnerable areas (garage and possibly basement) and want to protect it from physical damage. An LB (conduit body) and/or a PVC sleeve are common protection methods. The challenge is fitting the thick SER cable, especially with bending radius requirements, into a reasonable-sized conduit and LB.

Code Considerations (Important!) Physical Protection

NEC (National Electrical Code) Section 338.12(A) states that SER cable must be installed in a raceway where subject to physical damage. This is the key requirement you're addressing.

Fill Percentage

Even if you can physically stuff the cable into a conduit or LB, you must comply with conduit fill percentages (NEC Chapter 9, Table 1 and Table 4). Oversized conduit may be required.

Bending Radius

SER cable has a minimum bending radius requirement. For 1 AWG SER, check the manufacturer's specifications. Forcefully bending the cable too sharply can damage the insulation and conductors, creating a hazard. This is a major reason why LBs can be problematic with large cables.

Support

You need to properly support the conduit and cable.

Proper Fittings

Use fittings listed for the purpose and appropriate for the conduit type.

Your Options and Considerations1. PVC Sleeve Only (Exposed Section)



Pros

Simple, potentially cheaper.

Cons



The exposed section is a problem. The entire run of the cable must be protected. Having an exposed section at the bottom of the wall defeats the purpose. That section is now subject to physical damage and is out of compliance. A sleeve by itself might not be considered sufficient protection in a garage environment.2. PVC Conduit (Full Run)



Pros

Provides good protection.

Cons

Getting the right size is crucial. A 1.5" PVC might not be large enough when considering conduit fill limitations and ease of pulling the cable. A 2" or even 2.5" might be required. Bending the PVC to follow your path will be necessary, requiring a heat gun or pre-bent elbows.3.

PVC Conduit with LB



Pros

Can simplify bends, provides access for pulling.

Cons



Difficult to fit 1 AWG SER

As you've discovered, LBs can be extremely tight. You need to ensure the LB is large enough to meet conduit fill requirements and accommodate the bending radius of the cable. A 2" LB might still be too small. Larger sizes exist, but they can be cumbersome. Multiple short sections of conduit separated by LBs can be more work than a continuous run.4.

EMT (Electrical Metallic Tubing) Conduit



Pros

Good physical protection, easier to bend than rigid PVC (using a conduit bender).

Cons

Requires specific fittings (connectors and couplings). You would need to ground the EMT conduit properly. Still subject to conduit fill and bending radius considerations.5.

RMC (Rigid Metal Conduit)



Pros

The most robust physical protection.

Cons

The most expensive, heaviest, and can be more difficult to work with. Requires specialized tools for cutting and threading. You need to ground the RMC conduit properly. Still subject to conduit fill and bending radius considerations.6.

Recess and Cover



Idea

Recess the cable into the wall (within the garage) and cover it with a durable metal plate or channel.

Considerations

This could work if done properly. You would need to ensure the recessed area is large enough to accommodate the cable without exceeding its bending radius. The cover must be securely fastened and provide adequate physical protection. It must be accessible (not permanently sealed). This might be more labor-intensive.

Recommendations1. Calculate Conduit Fill

Before doing anything, determine the actual outside diameter of your 1 AWG SER cable (check the cable's jacket). Then, use NEC Chapter 9, Table 4 to calculate the maximum number of conductors (in your case, the single SER cable) allowed in various sizes of conduit. This will tell you the minimum size conduit you can use.2.

Favor a Larger Conduit

If you're close on the fill calculation, go up to the next larger size. It will make pulling the cable easier and reduce stress on the insulation.3.

Minimize Bends

The fewer bends, the easier the pull and the less likely you are to exceed bending radius limits.4.

Consider EMT or RMC

For a garage environment, EMT or RMC provide excellent protection. If you are comfortable working with metal conduit, they are good options.5.

Consult a Qualified Electrician

Seriously, this is the best advice. They can assess your specific situation, ensure compliance with local codes, and recommend the safest and most practical solution. Running cable of this size requires experience and knowledge of electrical codes.

Example Scenario (Hypothetical)

Let's say your 1 AWG SER cable has an outside diameter of 0.75 inches. Using NEC Chapter 9, Table 4: A 1.5" conduit might be barely enough, but it would be very tight.* A 2" conduit would be a better choice, providing more room for the cable.

In Summary:

Don't use a sleeve with an exposed section. That is not compliant. Thoroughly evaluate your options, prioritizing physical protection, code compliance, and ease of installation. Consider EMT or RMC for superior protection. And, strongly consider consulting a licensed electrician. Flag for review