[oldanalog]

I will be using a pvc junction box without knockouts like this:

http://www.lowes.com/pd_145145-223-E989N-CAR_1z0xc70__?productId=3260229&pl=1

and will obviously need to cut my own holes with hole saws (small number doesn't justify buying punches).

I also wanted to add two holes for push in clamps to a Carlon 2Gang Zip box being used as a junction box only. I would easily be under max fill but need the extra clamps. I chose this box as it could take a device box blank cover as is (would look OK in the back inside face of a kitchen cabinet). A three gang has enough clamps, but is overkill fill-wize and eats more real estate than I want to give it.

Seems straightforward but I also found the following in a Carlon paper in response to someone wanting to do as I proposed:

www.carlonsales.com/techinfo/faqs/FAQ-ZipBoxes.pdf

"Finally, if you drilled a hole in the box then you would void the listing of the product and would get tagged by the inspector."
​

So if this is true, where in the code is this spelled out that doesn't then conflict with cutting your own holes in a box with no knockouts or integral clamps?

Thanks, Jim

 

[darren]

I believe that FAQ is concerning the blue device boxes not your junction box.

Hole saw or unibit will work to make a hole. If it is used outside you will have to use fittings that are approved for outside. If the box is inside you can use whatever connectors you want.

 

[brric]

Exactly how would you get anything into the box without making holes?

 

[Speedy Petey]

.......

Seems straightforward but I also found the following in a Carlon paper in response to someone wanting to do as I proposed:

www.carlonsales.com/techinfo/faqs/FAQ-ZipBoxes.pdf

"Finally, if you drilled a hole in the box then you would void the listing of the product and would get tagged by the inspector."
​

So if this is true, where in the code is this spelled out that doesn't then conflict with cutting your own holes in a box with no knockouts or integral clamps?

If you cannot drill your own holes then how do you use the box?

I agree, what you read there does not apply to this box. And I only use hole saws on PVC boxes, never a punch.

 

[Arrow3030]

If a zip box is what I think it is, you can't drill your own holes in it.

 

[oldanalog]

Thanks everybody!

I believe that FAQ is concerning the blue device boxes not your junction box.

Exactly how would you get anything into the box without making holes?

If you cannot drill your own holes then how do you use the box?
I agree, what you read there does not apply to this box. And I only use hole saws on PVC boxes, never a punch.

Agree there's no issue with field made holes in a box that has none. But for the life of me other than the Carlon FAQ re. zip boxes I can't find anything in the code (I read all of Article 314 with a fine tooth comb.) prohibiting adding field made holes to a box with integral clamps. I think the author of the FAQ can't legally justify their comment.

If a zip box is what I think it is, you can't drill your own holes in it.

Here's a link to zip boxes. http://www.carlonsales.com/techinfo/brochures/electrical/Zip Boxes_2B1.pdf

On many of these there appears to be plenty of room for one or two push in clamps on at least one side. So what would be the argument against doing that as long as you don't exceed box fill. I my case, I'm only using a blank cover and box fill won't be exceeded.

Here's Carlon's artilcle:

"ZIP BOX BLUETM NONMETALLIC OUTLET AND SWITCH BOXES PER THE 2002 NATIONAL ELECTRICAL CODE (NEC)"

http://www.carlonsales.com/techinfo/codesstandards/CS-ZipBoxes_2002NEC.pdf

​

where I still don't see any prohibition re field added holes.

Anyhow, after reviewing this part of my plan (relocating and extending 5 12/2 NM cables in a 34cu" box) I realized I will not need one of them so this question becomes moot, but for future reference my engineering mind want's to know whether field added holes for push in clamps in a box that has factory clamps is to code or not and why or why not.

 

[Arrow3030]

You'd probably have to find it's UL listing and installation instructions. The most compelling for why it isn't code is most likely due to a lack of specific instructions allowing it rather than specifics against it. All and all, I'm glad you found a way around it.