Loadcenter/Service panel retrofit

[Mike1903]

I am replacing a 40 year Square D QO split bus load center with a 42 circuit Eaton CH loadcenter.
What is your recommendation to use around knockouts to protect the wires? Should i go with the plastic ones or go with metal ones? Since i am taking the panel out and putting a new one, I will have access to both sides of the panel before sliding it in.

From best practice, should i start filling from the bottom towards the main breaker or start from the main breaker? The only thing I need to add in the future is an interlock kit.

Thanks

 

[Innovate1]

Not sure what you are talking about in regard to plastic knockout liners but it doesn't sound like it would be to code. These are normally metal clamps for the wires.

For breaker locations it doesn't really matter. I usually start from the main. Just leave room for the interlocked breaker.

 

[Mike1903]

Not sure what you are talking about in regard to plastic knockout liners but it doesn't sound like it would be to code. These are normally metal clamps for the wires.

For breaker locations it doesn't really matter. I usually start from the main. Just leave room for the interlocked breaker.

I meant the knockouts on the top and bottom of the load center through which branch circuit wires are fed. Sounds like those need to be metal?
I was thinking of something like this:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Sigma-Electric-ProConnex-1-2-in-Knockout-Bushing-Conduit-Fitting/3389588

 

[billconner]

Do you mean something like this? https://www.gordonelectricsupply.com/p/T-B-3201-1-2-Pltc-Nmc-Conn/36123

I'm a little crazy when it comes to panel layout. Last one was all basement circuits grouped at bottom, 1st floor next, and so with 2d floor and attic. Receptacle circuits to right, lighting and appliances to left. some exceptions of course and wire length will limit your options.

 

[bamawildcat]

I recommend use the clamps you would prefer, be it plastic or metal. As far as which direction to layout, I would layout the new breakers/circuits based on the amount of free-play you have in your existing wiring. Circuits that can reach to the top of the panel get put there, circuits that are shorter on the bottom of the panel.

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Not sure what you are talking about in regard to plastic knockout liners but it doesn't sound like it would be to code. These are normally metal clamps for the wires.

For breaker locations it doesn't really matter. I usually start from the main. Just leave room for the interlocked breaker.

he's probably referring to these and they are code permissable

https://www.menards.com/main/electrical/conduit-conduit-fittings-raceways/conduit-fittings/1-2-push-in-nm-connector-25-pack/nm94-25m/p-1444424266478-c-9538.htm

 

[Mike1903]

he's probably referring to these and they are code permissable

https://www.menards.com/main/electrical/conduit-conduit-fittings-raceways/conduit-fittings/1-2-push-in-nm-connector-25-pack/nm94-25m/p-1444424266478-c-9538.htm

You sir are a mind reader thx!

 

[Innovate1]

I meant the knockouts on the top and bottom of the load center through which branch circuit wires are fed. Sounds like those need to be metal?
I was thinking of something like this:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Sigma-Electric-ProConnex-1-2-in-Knockout-Bushing-Conduit-Fitting/3389588

Those are not acceptable. They don't clamp the wire. The ones that wyliediesel posted are ok. It's not really metal vs. plastic but if they clamp the wire.

 

[Mike1903]

Thanks folks!

Separately, just learned that you can't move 2/0 Neutral lug on Plug on Neutral Eaton loadcentres. The website says you can but Eaton tech support confirmed today that it is incorrect.

See the product here and the description (incorrect) here:

https://www.lowes.com/pd/Eaton-200-Amp-42-Spaces-84-Circuit-Main-Breaker-Plug-On-Neutral-Load-Center-Value-Pack/1000551323