Siemens main circuit breaker red tab

[AlanB]

Working on my dad's mobile (former FEMA trailer) with a Siemens main box (100a) the main breaker has a little red "flag" or flipper or something in the middle of it. It is attached / molded / cast into the middle of this 100A breaker between the two switches.

In fooling around with it, I broke the top of the flag off, not sure what the dang thing is or does. It is not tall enough to flip up or anything visible when it is installed I do not think. It is only visible when the breaker is out in your hand. It is on the center, or supply side of the breaker

Really do not want to pull it out to take pictures, it hooks kind of under the edge of the center of the load center, and snaps in.

I don't know if this is enough description, but if anyone has some insight into what this thing is I would appreciate it.

Alan B

 

[hr3]

Is this what you are talking about ??
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:...clendons.com/img/products/10/10455240.jpg&t=1

 

[AlanB]

Is this what you are talking about ??
http://t0.gstatic.com/images?q=tbn:...clendons.com/img/products/10/10455240.jpg&t=1

Yes, that is it exactly,

what is it?

I cannot read enough behind it to understand what it is doing, supposed to do.

Thanks,

Al B

 

[Inspector507]

Yes, that is it exactly,

what is it?

I cannot read enough behind it to understand what it is doing, supposed to do.

Thanks,

Al B

It's a hold down device for a back-fed breaker. Code requires one to be installed on breakers that are back-fed so that you cannot easily remove a breaker that is still hot because it's fed from the back side.

 

[AlanB]

Thanks guys,
so that is why it is just on the main I would assume?

 

[Inspector507]

Yes. Not only does it restrict you pulling it out, it keeps it from slipping out when the panel cover is removed.