Replies

1. 
   gfretwell | Sep 09, 2013 04:00pm | #1

   Yes, as long as the Junction box remains accessible.

1. 
   dpsoniat | Sep 10, 2013 11:28am | #2

   Thanks Greg...

   yes, the junction box will be accessible (and wires clamped into it and with cover) in attic.

   nothing special about joining 50amp circuit wires - correct?  

   (just use correct size wire-nuts?)

   thanks folks....!

   Dave

2. 
   mwgaines | Sep 10, 2013 10:37pm | #3

   I'm always intrigued by the reasoning for various codes. That one would be equally curious since an outlet, itself, is basically just another junction box. Am I missing something with this logic?

1. 
   DanH | Sep 10, 2013 11:09pm | #4

   Not missing anything, really, and I'm not saying that what I said is code (vs, say, "inspector's interpretation") -- it's just what I've read here and there.  I suspect that, if there is such an issue, it's because the junction box is apt to be buried (despite the rules), and such a high-amp connection REALLY needs to be available for inspecftion (and to note it getting hot and smoking).

   Remember, you install an "accessible" box, and then someone comes along and replaces the cabinets or tiles over the wall or whatever and the box is no longer accessible.

1. 
   gfretwell | Sep 11, 2013 09:12pm | #5

   There are no particular rules about the range circuit except that there has to be a disconnect. If the range has a plug on it, you are good. Again that needs to be accessible. Inside the base cabinet is OK tho.

   You just have to be able to get to it without "disturbing the building finish" (like knocking a hole in the wall)

   BTW 50a is not really that big a circuit when you get away from 1&2 family homes.

3. 
   dpsoniat | Sep 12, 2013 11:32am | #6

   Interesting comments folks....thanks.  I have another wrinkle that may make me just do a new run all the way instead.  I was expecting to extend with 6-3 (w/ground) from local store.  That new cable is copper.  The existing is AL.   So in the junction it would be a CU-AL junction.  that's probably not the best thing to leave in a junction box in the attic on a 50 AMP circuit.  

   To be specific, the old cable is: Alcan Stabiloy  AA-8000 series type SEcable style ser type XHHW.

   So if I run a new cable to the breaker panel,  can I use the same breakers which had had ALCAN stabiloy connected to them instead connected to the new copper?   or put in new breakers too?

   thanks,  Dave

1. 
   DanH | Sep 13, 2013 12:04am | #7

   Aluminum is still legal for high-amp circuits, but I don't know exactly where the cutoff is.  But splicing aluminum is tricky -- best done with splicing blocks if done at all.

   Pretty sure the beaker should be good for copper -- I don't think there were any breakers made that were good for ONLY aluminum.

2. 
   gfretwell | Sep 14, 2013 05:09pm | #8

   There are a few acceptible splicing devices for copper and aluminum. The Polaris style are the top of the line and they have some cheaper knockoffs that are just as good. Then you have the old time split bolt with the interposer to separate the direct contract of copper and aluminum conductors.

   That is taped up.

1. 
   junkhound | Sep 15, 2013 10:26am | #9

   with the interposer

   ah, reminds me of old times in the late 60's and early 70's when even 12 AWG Al wire was common -- the old trick when you dont have a bag full - bash a 5 cent piece (preferably canadian coil nickel) flat and trim to fit. 

1. 
   DanH | Sep 15, 2013 02:47pm | #10

   But of course a "nickel" is

   But of course a "nickel" is 75% copper.