I found this modified split bus panel today and am writing it up and such, but was curious what others think about it.
There was a new 100 amp service wire installed, and instead of connecting to the lugs at the top of the panel, they installed a 100 amp breaker and are now back-feeding the split bus.
Everything still works as it should, but IMO, being that the panel was modified, it’s wrong.
Comments please.
At the very least that 100a breaker lacks a hold down. “Modified” or “not used as designed”? Agree it just looks wrong. I’d be writing it up and let a sparky declare it safe (in writing) and call me I’m an idiot if he wants to. There are other issues in the panel for an electrician to look at.
And if someone followed the instructions on panel cover to power off the entire house, well then, somebody is getting shocked!
I wouild call it a safety hazard.
I’m just curious: why do you think it was initially connected at the top?
The two silver lugs at the top of the breakers are where connection usually is, and it directly feeds the top 6 (maybe 4 in this case) 240v spaces. No single disconnect in a spilt bus panel.
I personally have a back-fed split bus. You have piqued my interest in seeing if there are lugs at the top. It’s time for me to learn.
Also as a side note, the “electrician” who did the work evidently didn’t pull permits. I found this at the overhead connection.
Rephrase… Why do you think it is no longer connected at the top?
Kinda/sorta looks like a heat issue from here. 
Jeff beat me to it. That second picture looks like past heat damage, and someone rigged up that work around.
I don’t see a tie-down on the back-feed 100 breaker.
Corroded circuit cable retention bushings. Bottom right side.
Looks like some kind of issue with heat, I also agree.
I wanted to add that whenever we wired a switch duty breaker, if there was more than one, we always put them together. It helps eliminate fumble fingers Freddy from accidentally turning off the cafeteria fridge.
One would think the same applies in a home.
