How to Install a Stab-Lok Circuit Breaker
On rare occasions, you will need to install a Federal Pacific Electric Company Stab-Lok style circuit breaker. To do so, first remove an existing breaker. Then, install the load side wire onto the new breaker. Insert the breaker into the bus bar of the panel, following the specific technique for Stab-Lok connections. Turn the breaker on only after ensuring that it rests solidly in the panel. Finally, close the panel back up. This work can be dangerous because of high voltage, so take caution. Does this Spark an idea?
Other People Are Reading
Things You'll Need
- Flat, Phillips and/or square drive screwdrivers
- Linesman's pliers
- Voltage tester
Instructions
-
-
1
Open the cover of the breaker panel by removing the screws at each corner and carefully lifting the cover away. Locate the breaker that needs to be replaced, and make sure it is turned completely off by flipping the switch all the way towards the outside of the panel.
-
2
Gently rotate the breaker out of the panel. The breaker has a hinge end towards the outside of the panel, and teeth connecting it to the bus bar in the center of the panel. Use the hinge end on the outside of the breaker as a pivot point, and pull the teeth away from the bus bar. Keep the breaker in its horizontal plane, and contact only the plastic parts of its casing, never the metal. Take care not to touch the high-voltage bus bar in the center of the panel.
-
-
3
Remove the load wire from the back of the loose breaker by loosening the set screw that holds it in. Discard the old breaker. If necessary, and if the circuit has enough slack wire, trim the end of the load wire and strip the insulation 1/2 inch from the trimmed end.
-
4
Insert the load wire under the set screw at the back of the new breaker, letting as little bare wire as possible appear beyond the socket. Tighten down the set screw completely.
-
5
With the breaker turned off, slip the hinge end of the breaker under the metal tab alongside the center of the panel. Then, rotate the teeth of the breaker down towards the bus bar, and press the breaker firmly into position. Make sure that the breaker seats firmly in position, without wiggling. Again, do not touch the bus bar.
-
6
Turn on the circuit breaker, standing well to the side and without staring directly at the panel. Ensure that no arcs, sparks or unusual buzzing or humming begin. Then, test for voltage on the new circuit. If all goes well, close the panel back up by re-covering the panel and installing the screws at each corner. Finally, go and research replacements for FPE breaker panels.
-
1
Tips & Warnings
Wear gloves and use insulated tools to protect against shock. When removing and installing circuit breakers at the panel, push and pull with caution, starting gently and then applying more force as needed. Consult a qualified electrician before opening the panel to perform this task.
Circuit breaker panels contain high voltage, and should be treated with extreme caution. Do not allow your hands or screwdrivers or pliers to contact loose bare wire in the box, or especially the bus bar in the center of the panel, as the resulting shock could lead to severe injury or death.
Inspectors and other experts recommend replacing Stab-Lok circuit panels rather than individual breakers. However, in the event that replacement breakers need temporary installation, be aware of the safety hazards attending Federal Pacific and Stab-Lok breakers, which include risks of fire and shock.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit electric panel image by DXfoto.com from Fotolia.com
