Hey I just bought an older co-op from the 50’s. I want to put a ceiling fan in but ran into trouble. I was trying to take down the existing box and it has a nipple in the middle with a flat head screw slot in the bottom. I bought the usual box and anchor mechanism to put in but I have no idea how to get this box out. Obviously I can't go in through the top due to the co-op situation. Please help. Maybe a YouTube video or something how to remove it. Thanks. 
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I CANT go through the top due to the co-op situation.– PeteCommented May 4, 2018 at 8:24
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The existing box may be the type which is rated for a hefty chandelier or a ceiling fan up to some specified weight. I think that large center screw clamps the box onto a metal crossbar which spans two joists. How heavy is this ceiling fan?– Jim StewartCommented May 4, 2018 at 9:24
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I believe @JimStewart is on to something. In other words, maybe revise the question to ask how to mount to it rather than ask how to remove it?– SDsolarCommented May 5, 2018 at 1:33
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1 Answer
Jim Stewart's comment is pretty much right on.
That is not a nipple it is what is called a "hickey" by the National Electrical Code. It serves to attach the box to a hanger bar or other spanning device.
It looks like you may have a pretty stout box already and may not need the fan box.
I usually look for a ceiling hugger style fan and toggle bolt it directly to the drywall/plaster. This eliminates the need for fan box.
Good luck!
