A method and system for inserting a liner and lining pipes from inside a water main or other larger pipe. The method and system generally includes inserting a string inside the first pipe between a first end and a second end, inserting the string through a liner positioning tool, attaching a first end of the string to the liner, and then pulling the liner into the first pipe with the first string such that the liner extends from the first end to the second end of the pipe. One end of the string may be attached to the liner by a pulling insert, which may be a threaded insert that screws into an end of the liner, and which may further include a fluid passage to allow hot water or other fluid to flow through the insert while the string is connected to it.