how to turn a panel into a junction box

[willie_s]

we still use this old federal pacific panel and it blocks a water heater. we want to move it, is there any way to turn this old panel into a large junction box by code?

 

[Loto_Arusu]

Short answer: maybe, if the panel is empty, door secured, everything spliced inside properly, and it meets NEC junction box rules. But many inspectors will make you pull a permit and verify it meets clearance and grounding rules. If it’s Federal Pacific anyway, ripping it out for a proper J-box or new panel is usually easier and safer.

 

[PGB1]

Hi WIllie_S,
Yours is a good question. Your idea is done often, but a couple of things will pose challenges to you.
The below answer Assumes U.S. and Covered by NFPA 70:

Lots of FPE load centers didn't come with doors. If yours is like that, when you remove the breakers, you'll have to make a cover plate That voids the whole Listing Agency approval thing. The inspector might knock it down. Or, find a bunch of snap-in blanks on the used market.

Also note that if you are removing a bunch of conduits or cables, you'll have to close those openings.


I like Loto_Arusu's advice to purchase a pull box to replace the old load center with. You also could use a steel gutter section vertically if there were conduits or cables coming out of the side of the existing load center. It'll make the swap easier. They come with or without knockouts and with hinged or removable covers.

You mentioned a water heater in the way. If it's blocking the FPE panel, you'll have to move the panel anyway. Might as well start new. You can get them in plastic or steel. With or without knockouts in steel.
Take a study of NFPA 70 Article 314 for sizing the new box.

Don't throw out the FOPE breakers, especially if they are Stab-Lok. They sell for stupid money on places like eBay or Bonanza. Used breaker buyers will also purchase them, but for less money. Check ElectricalAdvertiser on line.

Paul

 

[electr0roy]

you know, since it’s an FPE, it's best to just rip the whole thing out. Those panels are famous for being fire hazards because the breakers don’t trip when they should
if you're already moving the circuits, it's the perfect time to get that fire starter out of your house for good

 

[PGB1]

you know, since it’s an FPE, it's best to just rip the whole thing out. Those panels are famous for being fire hazards because the breakers don’t trip when they should
if you're already moving the circuits, it's the perfect time to get that fire starter out of your house for good

You're not kidding that they fail to trip!

At an NFL stadium where I worked we had something like 68 FPE Stab Lok 200 amp, 3 phase load centers. In the electrical parts crib, the shelf for spare Stab Lok breakers had a sign: "FPE- Where a 20 Is as good as a 50".

The aluminum bus ones used to burn on a regular basis. Copper bus? Not so much. Their fused disconnects were famous for failing, too. One could throw the handle and a blade or two stayed connected to line. But the transformers lived forever.

I'd have to whole heartedly agree with electr0roy- Ditch the panel.

Also note that some insurance policies have a fine print clause stating that they will not cover electrical fires if Federal Pacific is in the system. My home policy has that clause. Buried deep, but the clause is there.

Paul