This old panel looks like it could have been set up as a split buss job. Remove the jumpers from the main lugs from the left side to right, install (or arc weld
) a large 2P breaker on the left side, and use it to feed the right side. How you would bend the conductors through those narrow gutters to the other side is another matter...
Doesn't make it any better, though...
. Those jumpers look awful dicey. I'm surprised the entire panel isn't full of mud daubers. Those little beasties can get in everywhere.
JJM: I know what you mean by those mushy feeling OEM breakers. I believe those were "Magnetrips", and if you operated the handle slowly enough, you could actually open the circuit (read "arcing contacts")before the "spring" kicks in
.
Mike (mamills)
[This message has been edited by mamills (edited 11-29-2006).]