RACO 205RAC
Hubbell-Raco 205RAC Retro-Ring Instruction Manual
Model: 205RAC | Brand: RACO
Product Overview
The RACO Retro-Ring (Model 205RAC) is designed to facilitate the secure mounting of a 4-inch square steel junction box in existing walls. This product is ideal for installing life safety detection and notification devices, offering a robust mounting solution independent of stud or wall support locations.
Image: The RACO 205RAC Retro-Ring, a silver-colored square metal frame with adjustable wings for old-work installation.
Key Features
- Works in wall or ceiling applications ranging from 3/8 inch to 1 1/2 inch thick.
- Steel old-work wings ensure secure mounting of the box and device to the wall.
- Small footprint is compatible with most popular life safety devices.
- Mounting holes on the Retro-Ring are specifically designed for alarm devices.
Image: Visual representation of key features including Safe and Secure, Easy Install, Tamper Resistant, and Heavy-Duty construction.
Installation Instructions
Prepare the Opening: Ensure the wall or ceiling opening is appropriately sized for a 4-inch square junction box. The Retro-Ring is designed for wall thicknesses between 3/8 inch and 1 1/2 inch.
Insert the Retro-Ring: Place the Retro-Ring into the wall opening. The steel old-work wings should be positioned to engage with the inside of the wallboard as you push the ring into place.
Image: Illustrates the process of inserting an electrical device into an old-work box, similar to how the Retro-Ring would be positioned.
Secure the Retro-Ring: Once the Retro-Ring is flush with the wall surface, tighten the screws on the old-work wings. These screws will draw the wings inward, clamping the Retro-Ring securely against the wallboard from the inside.
Image: A screwdriver is used to tighten a screw, securing an electrical box in an old-work application.
Mount the Junction Box: After the Retro-Ring is securely installed, attach your 4-inch square steel junction box to the Retro-Ring using appropriate screws through the designated mounting holes. These holes are specifically designed for alarm devices and other life safety equipment.
Install Device: Once the junction box is mounted, proceed with installing your desired life safety detection or notification device into the junction box.
Always ensure power is off at the circuit breaker before beginning any electrical installation.
Application and Usage
The RACO Retro-Ring is primarily used for mounting 4-inch square steel junction boxes in existing drywall or plaster walls and ceilings. Its design allows for installation without needing to locate a wall stud, providing flexibility for device placement. It is particularly well-suited for:
- Smoke detectors
- Carbon monoxide detectors
- Fire alarm strobes and horns
- Other life safety detection and notification devices
The robust steel construction ensures a durable and secure mounting point for critical safety equipment.
Maintenance
The RACO Retro-Ring is a passive, durable component requiring minimal maintenance. Periodically, it is recommended to:
- Visual Inspection: Inspect the installed Retro-Ring and the mounted junction box for any signs of damage, corrosion, or loosening.
- Tightness Check: If accessible, ensure the mounting screws for the old-work wings remain tight to maintain a secure fit.
- Cleaning: If necessary, gently wipe the exposed surfaces with a dry cloth to remove dust or debris. Avoid using abrasive cleaners.
No internal components or moving parts require lubrication or replacement.
Troubleshooting
| Problem | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Retro-Ring does not sit flush with wall. | Wall thickness is outside the 3/8" to 1 1/2" range. / Opening is not square or too small. | Verify wall thickness. Ensure opening is precisely cut to fit a 4-inch square box. |
| Retro-Ring feels loose after tightening screws. | Screws not fully tightened. / Wallboard is damaged or too soft. | Ensure screws are fully tightened. If wallboard is damaged, repair or reinforce the area before re-installation. |
| Junction box does not align with Retro-Ring mounting holes. | Incorrect junction box size or type. | Ensure you are using a standard 4-inch square steel junction box. |
Specifications
- Product Dimensions: 9 x 5.75 x 5.13 inches; 2.56 ounces
- Item Model Number: 205RAC
- Manufacturer: Hubbell
- Color: Silver
- Connector Type: Ring
- Contact Material: Steel
- Insulation Material: Non-Insulated
- Terminal: Ring Terminal
- Wall Thickness Compatibility: 3/8 inch to 1 1/2 inch
Related documents205RAC
Ask a question about this manual
Ask about setup, troubleshooting, compatibility, parts, safety, or missing instructions. Manuals+ will review the question and use this page’s manual context to help answer it.