Max breaker size

[AKMac]

Before I begin, let me state that I have done my best to search for an answer. Also, I have very limited electrical knowledge

I currently have 200amp service. I am out of breaker spots on my main breaker panel, so I'm going to hire an electrician to replace this:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Eaton-20...Breaker-Surface-EUSERC-MBE24L200BTS/100190587

with this:

http://www.homedepot.com/p/Eaton-20...-Breaker-Meter-Breaker-MBE88B200BTS/202275998

The idea being to swap out the guts so I don't have a stucco repair.

My main question is this.

This panel, while a "BR" style breaker, says on the inside it will accept a "BJ" breaker as well.

They make a 200amp "BJ" breaker. Does this mean I can install a 200amp breaker to feed a full 200 amps to a subpanel, or will the electrical code make me step that down to a 175amp "BJ" breaker or less?

Thanks

 

[Norcal]

There is a limitation for some panels on the max amperes for each bus stab some are 110A max, if this is the case then no. Why do you want a 200A sub? 100A goes a long way & is a lot cheaper.

 

[pattenp]

I believe the Eaton BR panel will handle up to a 125A breaker.

 

[AKMac]

Well, this panel will be feeding a 60x60 shop, with a mill, lathe, drill press, several welders, several bandsaws, etc. It will also have a full mother-in-law apartment with a full kitchen, washer dryer, water heater, A/C, etc. I figured 200amps would be safe.

 

[G_P]

Just remember that you only have 200a max coming in. Trying to run a whole house, a large shop and a fully electric apartment is going to be close to maxing out the 200a service if both water heaters are running at the same time and you have the AC on everywhere with an oven going.