We removed a ceiling fan that was installed on a pancake box that is mounted directly to the joists in the ceiling/attic. The bolt on the new chandelier is too long to be fit inside the pancake box and have the canopy rest flush to the ceiling. We considered cutting the threaded bolt that the wires pull through but we'd have to cut it so short it felt like there may be another option?
Electrical – How to install a chandelier onto a pancake box
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Related Solutions
You probably can use a universal mounting plate (sometimes called a crossbar)
These come in various configurations.
You can usually thread bolts downward and hold them in place with nuts. These will be used to hold the chandelier. Then mount the plate to the box, rotate to adjust the angle you want. Then mount the fixture to the plate.
This works with fixtures up to a moderate weight. It should not be used with very heavy fixtures and definitely not with a fan.
Electrical boxes serve several functions. They protect wiring where insulation has been removed. They prevent inadvertent contact with exposed components. They contain sparks when the worst occurs. And they provide standard mounting points for fixtures.
I'd be inclined to "code things up" with a wraparound box like so:
Nonmetallic ceiling joist box for ceiling fans. 4'' diameter x 2 1/8'' deep, 12.0 cu. in. 4 clamps, 2 1/2'' knockouts. Maximum fixture weight is 150 lb., maximum fan weight is 70 lb. Exceeds National Electrical code requirements. Recommended for earthquake areas.
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Best Answer
My suggestion is to find a different fan rated pancake that does not have the mounting holes directly inline with the beam. Alternatively, go buy a new pancake and drill holes to mount it where the holes aren't inline with the beam.
Either suggestion shouldn't cost you much.