Sub Panel install

[lmorris9935]

Hey guys new here! I’m installing a 100 amp sub panel in my attached garage to run some tools off of that are all 220v. As there is no 220 in the garage currently. I’ve run plenty of 220 and am very comfortable with the process. The sub panel I have never done. The main panel is in my bedroom about 25 feet away. Very clear and open attic run for the cable. I have 2-2-2-4 SER cable. My question is fishing the cable from the attic down to the main panel…how is this done? Do I have to cut the drywall away above the main panel? I feel weird drilling the hole in the top plate not really able to see what’s below the top plate in the wall. There is room on one side of panel next to the main 200amp service cable. I have fished 12/2 wire this way before but it was easy with a small hole and a chain fish with a magnet. Any help with fishing 2awg wire would be greatly appreciated! A couple electricians said it could be done without cutting away the drywall.

 

[dhally]

The answer is "yes." Just need to learn how to patch drywall! It ***** but can be done.

 

[Innovate1]

If you have open knockouts in the top of the panel it may be possile. Cut the hole above in the top plate. Put the clamp on the cable. Knock out the hole in the panel. Then feed the cable down through the holes and put the nut on the clamp. Requires the wall above to be not filled with wires or insulation. But cutting out the drywall makes things a lot easier and greatly reduces the chance of hitting some wires or who knows what. Make the cuts in the drywall square and put in a patch. If you are careful cutting you should even be able to use the cutout piece and put it back. I'm terrible at mudding but would tackle a small patch like that without worries. If you think you might ever need to get in there again you could cover the joints with trim.

 

[mike93lx]

Make sure you use no larger than a 90a breaker in the main panel to feed that sub. 100a main out in the sub is fine though

 

[ycgoat]

I prefer to cut in an access panel above or below the panel if allowed based on aesthetics. with a #2 cable the connector will be too large to drill a hole through the top plate.

 

[yatg]

Make sure you use no larger than a 90a breaker in the main panel to feed that sub. 100a main out in the sub is fine though

Isn't SE treated like NM? 60C? It wasn't, then was, and now?

 

[wyliesdiesels]

Isn't SE treated like NM? 60C? It wasn't, then was, and now?

Most NM codes apply to SE. however SE is rated for 75* unless its older