When must you upgrade to meet code

[wrgeer]

Is there a clear rule when you must upgrade a non compliant cable device etc. and if so how far back must you go?
Example: a 3 phase 480V motor change out the cable to the motor is innapropriate size to combo starter, Conductors feeding the combo are to small and tap fed from main feeder cable, the main feeder cable is to small for the OCP. Is there a clear rule on this? The AHJ doesnt help me in this case as the equipment is moved from site to site.............
I feel it needs to be upgraded.
Any input is appreciated.

 

[ptonsparky]

Remember everything changes once you say "motor". Motor branch circuit & short circuit protection can be as high as 11 times FLA of the motor. Table 430.52.

No I don't think there is an NEC rule that says when you have to upgrade. Is the equipment cord & plug connected? If you are going to go to all the trouble correcting a problem, start from the beginning.

 

[iwire]

Is there a clear rule when you must upgrade a non compliant cable device etc. and if so how far back must you go?

No, not from the NEC, that issue is handled on a local basis and you would have to ask your AHJ.

Example: a 3 phase 480V motor change out the cable to the motor is innapropriate size to combo starter, Conductors feeding the combo are to small and tap fed from main feeder cable, the main feeder cable is to small for the OCP.

As ptonsparky mentioned as soon as you say motor the rules change, the condutors are sized for the motors not the breakers. For example it is entirely possible to supply a motor that draws 24 amps with 12 AWG on a 40 amp breaker.

Before you go to far I would check out Article 430.

The AHJ doesnt help me in this case as the equipment is moved from site to site.............

That sounds more like utilization equipment and the NEC would not apply anyway.

 

[weressl]

Is there a clear rule when you must upgrade a non compliant cable device etc. and if so how far back must you go?
Example: a 3 phase 480V motor change out the cable to the motor is innapropriate size to combo starter, Conductors feeding the combo are to small and tap fed from main feeder cable, the main feeder cable is to small for the OCP. Is there a clear rule on this? The AHJ doesnt help me in this case as the equipment is moved from site to site.............
I feel it needs to be upgraded.
Any input is appreciated.

The OSHA requirement on retroactive compliance is spelled out in 1910 Subpart S. That is the ONLY requirement that is uniform throughout the US, all the rest is local. Local can be more stringent, but never can override a Fed regulation.