Thread: Bootlegged Main

The main breaker on this 200A panel is not connected. The panel is fed through a separate 100 A breaker on side bus. (see pictures).

The cover is labeled - "Not the main switch" and "main switch".

Is this against any code?
It looks like a jury rig to me, but does the labeling make it ok?

Also, I don't often see distribution breakers direcftly oposite the main breaker as it is usually lugged in place and doesn't allow space?

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This looks like it was done because more breaker spaces were needed than a standard 100 amp panel could provide. This might be fine. The big consideration is if the breaker hold-down clip or bracket was used and if it can be used in that panel.

Originally Posted by Jim Port

This might be fine. The big consideration is if the breaker hold-down clip or bracket was used and if it can be used in that panel.

Of course, though, there are all the other things wrong in that panel.

Originally Posted by Jerry Peck

Of course, though, there are all the other things wrong in that panel.

I saw other things like colored wires on neutral terminal and rust on terminals. What else did you see that was wrong?

Originally Posted by Ken Amelin

What else did you see that was wrong?

Without looking real close, and with the limited resolution, see attached for starters.

Ken,

• The back feed 100 amp breaker would probably be ok if this were not a main circuit breaker load center, as such there will be no provision for installing the factory back feed main circuit breaker retaining clip.
• The service feeders enter the load center enclosure via an unprotected knockout. There is no conduit, connector, locknut or bushing to protect the # 4 AWG or larger conductors.
• The duct tape is not a legitimate knockout closure plug, aka push penny or Hoffman plug.
• The type AC cable does not terminate in armor clad connectors.
• There appears to be a white neutral on the ground bus located in the bottom of the panel.
• That is about all I see from you pix…

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