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    Redj53's Avatar
    Redj53 Posts: 1, Reputation: 1
    New Member
    		  
    #1

    Nov 16, 2010, 08:13 AM
    FPE Box Repacement
    I have a box in my garage that says sylvania on the front and a Challenger name in side the cover of the box. One licensed electrician says it's an FPE box and needs to be changed and another licensed electrician says no it does not have to be changed. Anyone know the correct answer?
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
    Printers & Electronics Expert
    		  
    #2

    Nov 16, 2010, 08:45 AM

    I have no experience with Federal Pacific Electric panel boxes, but from the responses I have seen here, they are holding places for a future fire.

    I would get that panel out of there.
    donf's Avatar
    donf Posts: 5,679, Reputation: 582
    Printers & Electronics Expert
    		  
    #3

    Nov 16, 2010, 10:03 AM

    Okay, first do not reply to a note by using the "comments" box. Please use the "Answer this question" box at the bottom of the frame.

    Second, I gave you a correct response. The electrician told you it was an FPE panel, not me.

    While I have not had any physical experience with the FPE panelboards, does not mean I have not studied them or that I am unfamiliar with there short comings.

    The highest reported failure is that their breakers will not reliably trip when under a overcurrent condition. This causes fires, period!

    Can you please attach several photos of this panel so that we know for sure what panel you actually have.
    stanfortyman's Avatar
    stanfortyman Posts: 5,598, Reputation: 279
    Electrical & Lighting Expert
    		  
    #4

    Nov 16, 2010, 10:20 AM
    Quote Originally Posted by Redj53 View Post
    I have a box in my garage that says sylvania on the front and a Challenger name in side the cover of the box.
    If this is true, then this guy...
    Quote Originally Posted by Redj53 View Post
    One licensed electrician says it's an FPE box and needs to be changed...
    Is a liar and a crook, and this guy...
    Quote Originally Posted by Redj53 View Post
    ... and another licensed electrician says no it does not have to be changed.
    ... is correct.
    tkrussell's Avatar
    tkrussell Posts: 9,659, Reputation: 725
    Uber Member
    		  
    #5

    Nov 16, 2010, 12:26 PM

    If it does not say FPE on the box, then it is not an FPE.

    Sylvania and Challanger merged a few years ago, then both dissappeared.

    One electrician may have been confused as Challanger was dealing with replacement parts for FPE for a while several years ago.

    For anyone here to be certain what you have , may be best for you to post a photo.
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