Breaker Panel above Electric Range Question

[aftershock]

Thanks for all the discussion. I agree the old panel location is not ideal. Based on all the discussion, it appears the best 100% code compliant solution is the use of the old panel as a junction box with a new 200 amp panel outside directly opposite the old panel.

If you do it right (or it works in your favor) you could eliminate the interior panel altogether.

 

[JohnJ0906]

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110.26 has been in the NEC for a long time, maybe not as 110.26, but I am taking a shot here and saying this install may never have been permitted...who knows, maybe the range was not located where it is now when the panel was installed.

I'm curious about whether or not this was ever allowed. There is a rather extensive community of row homes near our shop that has the electrical panel over the range - I mean a few hundred. (Circa 1950 or so)
I don't think ALL the kitchens were remodeled the same way.