FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

ELECTRICAL – Finding antique breakers

| Posted in General Discussion on January 10, 1999 10:20am

*
Folks,

I have a panel that uses Bulldog Pushmatic Breakers – the old kind from the ’60s. The new models carried at Hm. Depot have a metal tab that probably engages a slot in a redesigned panel. (I wonder what happens if I grind the tab off. At nearly $40 a pop, I’m doing research first.)

Anyone know of:

a source for old-fashioned breakers OR
a good electrical trades version of Breaktime where I can inquire further?

Tnx,

J Wells

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. Guest_ | Jan 07, 1999 09:04am | #1

    *
    John, go to a local Electrical Supply house...
    Where the electricians go. Bring your old breaker with you, the "Pushmatic" is a trademarked name, (I believe GE), does your's fasten to the panel with screws? Snap in? I've been able to get new and replacement breakers through my local electrical
    supply houses without problems.

    1. Guest_ | Jan 07, 1999 10:27am | #2

      *Re: finding antique breakers. Have you thought of an antique store? Haw, haw. No, seriously, those guys buy up whole estates sometimes. Not wont to throw anything out, they often have a box or two of what you may need.Otherwise, I agree; go where sparky goes. Especially the supply houses that have been in business for a long time. They sometimes have real old inventory.

  2. JohnE | Jan 07, 1999 11:19am | #3

    *
    John W

    Anywhere near Seattle? There is a local hardware store that salvages obsolete electrical equipment including knob & tube.

    Maybe you can find one in your area.

    Good luck;
    JohnE

    1. Bob_Poirier | Jan 07, 1999 10:03pm | #4

      *John, as you may know, the new Pushmatic breakers are manufactured by Siemens. I just happen to know the phone number of the manufacturing plant. It is 937-593-6010. When you call, ask for Customer Service. They will be able to answer any questions you have about the old Bulldog Pushmatics. You can also e-mail the Manager of Breaker Engineering at the plant: [email protected]. He was probably with the company when it was Bulldog Electric.Good luck!Bob P.

  3. Guest_ | Jan 08, 1999 01:33am | #5

    *
    Never, never, NEVER modify a breaker. As a matter of fact, don't even think about it.

  4. PhillyD | Jan 08, 1999 01:41am | #6

    *
    Is the new breaker you want to add a double-breaker? That tab might be to prevent overloading the panel?

    On some electrical panels, some of the spots dont allow double breakers, and employ some sort of slot or bar to prevent too many doubles being installed. Maybe this panel has that feature? Check other breaker loactions in the panel.

    HTH

    1. John_Wells | Jan 08, 1999 10:03am | #7

      *George,These Pushmatics are screw-down. The new ones screw, but also have a stab. In my panel, the stab has no place to go. Aside from that minor detail, the profile is the same. Spendy breaker! About $30 for a 1P15A duplex. I miss my Cutler Hammer panels.I shall have to scout the supplies down here. Mine was Platt up Seattle way.

      1. John_Wells | Jan 08, 1999 10:09am | #8

        *Mike,I didn't think it was a Good Career Move. Their engineers know more about what they want the panel to do than I ever will.So, I hunt about for antiques. Plenty of space in the panel and I need to add more circuits.JWW

        1. John_Wells | Jan 08, 1999 10:15am | #9

          *PhillyD -It's a 200A panel with plenty of space left. Bulldog makes a 15 and 20A duplex breaker. I'll have to see if it's a 2P or 1P. My lighting circuits are on these - and the kitchen one is getting cranky. I have zero spares so I am treading lightly. On a "brighter" note, I have an extensive collection of working kerosene lights from barn lanterns, thru Argand burners to Alladins. Just in case.

          1. John_Wells | Jan 08, 1999 10:17am | #10

            *Thanks for the tip! I'll send him mail.Had no idea who makes that line now days.

          2. JohnE | Jan 08, 1999 11:48am | #11

            *John W;You have a very capable load center to handle most residential needs. While a discontinued line is annoying to service, you're in a lot better shape than the unfortunates with Federal PAcific Electric (FPE) load centers. You can at least safely update the service.If you plan to continue expanding your branch circuits then you should get away from the limitations of the pushmatics.Get a 100 amp 2 pole breaker (or the largest branch breaker your load center will accept) to feed a 100 amp sub panel installed next to your main load center. This should give you adequate reserves for future needs, which may be new branch circuits or as backup for failed (Pushmatic) circuit breakers. You can replace a failed Pushmatic breaker with a new (less expensive breaker) in the new sub-panel.To help preserve the life of your pushmatics, exercise the breakers by shutting them off and then on again at last once per year. This keeps most of the trip mechanism functioning and freshens the contacts.The ultimate would be a complete replacement with a new load center, but the sub-panel approach should be ok.by the way (btw), be sure get an electrical permit (if/as required) if you plan to install the sub-panel yourself. This is a major task and the NEC has many hidden rules & local codes can really be a bear.Hope this helpsJE

  5. Guest_ | Jan 09, 1999 06:31am | #12

    *
    John, you might try Hank's Electric on Placentia Ave in Costa Mesa. Biggest & best in this area. Joe

  6. John_Wells | Jan 09, 1999 09:59am | #13

    *
    I've been thinking about a subpanel. I've done those and loadcenters and the inspectors were happy. The condo is a 60's Gold Medallion 100% electrical (want my bill?) affair, so they installed 200A, radiant heat, etc. Everything is in conduit, which I like, except when I need to expand.

    What I would love is a retrofit kit for the panel so I could replace the guts with something modern. (Dream on.)

    I even think on a new 200A loadcenter, but the thought of all those conduit runs having to fit something new is chilling. Perhaps an aux. gutter up topside. My neighbor is having a Total Renovation and "Electric Ray" seems to live there, so perhaps I can chat him up on any ideas . An on-line support group?

    1. John_Wells | Jan 09, 1999 10:02am | #14

      *Joe,I appreciate the tip.You must be a local if you know Costa Mesa. I'm over in NB by the Back Bay park. Hanks is #2 on the list that Switchboard printed out for me. I'll call them.JWW

  7. Guest_ | Jan 09, 1999 12:06pm | #15

    *
    John, tried to send you email with address the other day but AOL Mailer Demon does NOT like your address. Tried 3 times since I saw you post, still no good, guess it's not AOLlness this time. Joe H

  8. Dick_G | Jan 10, 1999 09:25pm | #16

    *
    John
    I also tried your address and it also bounced. I have just replaced my 100 A Pushmatic service in my (new) sixties vintage home for more capacity. I have double and duplux screw mounted type breakers available. If you or anyone else is interested, get with me and I will inventory and get back.

    1. John_Wells | Jan 10, 1999 10:20pm | #18

      *Dick -Appreciate the note. Try me at [email protected] It should work.Or - [email protected] sort of chore was it to replace the loadcenter?I have been very tempted every time I price a breaker.I am looking for 1P15 and 1P20 duplex breakers. But it you have 2P in stock, which sizes? New or used?I need the screw-down version without the stab on the back. Home Depot has a load of the new version.

  9. John_Wells | Jan 10, 1999 10:20pm | #17

    *
    Folks,

    I have a panel that uses Bulldog Pushmatic Breakers - the old kind from the '60s. The new models carried at Hm. Depot have a metal tab that probably engages a slot in a redesigned panel. (I wonder what happens if I grind the tab off. At nearly $40 a pop, I'm doing research first.)

    Anyone know of:

    a source for old-fashioned breakers OR
    a good electrical trades version of Breaktime where I can inquire further?

    Tnx,

    J Wells

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

An Easier Method for Mitered Head Casings

Making mitered head casings is a breeze with this simple system.

Featured Video

Micro-Adjust Deck-Baluster Spacing for an Eye-Deceiving Layout

No math, no measuring—just a simple jig made from an elastic band is all you need to lay out a good-looking deck railing.

Related Stories

  • Fire-Resistant Landscaping and Home Design Details
  • A New Approach to Foundations
  • A Closer Look at Smart Water-Leak Detection Systems
  • Guest Suite With a Garden House

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2024
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data