1. What is the diameter of the hole in the ceiling?
2. How do you know the old transformer is defective? Did you try unplugging one of the working lights and plugging it into the connector that's peeping out from the hole?
3. What brand and model replacement fixture did you buy?

Hi thx for responding. 1) transformer because when we plug in new light to test the lights blink indicating loose wire in box. 2) brand of light is elite 3) diameter of light is 3 inch round slim. Appreciate any and all advice

So, if I understand correctly, the 3" light has a transformer box that will not fit through a 3" hole in the ceiling. Do the directions indicate how you are supposed to wire and install this fixture? The smallest lights I've used are 4" lights, and the boxes can be removed through the hole cut for the fixture.

Bruce

It appears so... it looks like maybe when contractors did it, they tried to make drop in ceiling as small as possible and didnt leave enough room to take box out.

Am I correct that the transformer isn't too wide to fit through the hole but rather that you can't stand the transformer up up to pull it down through the hole because the space above the ceiling is so shallow?

1. What is the distance between the ceiling drywall and whatever is above it (i.e., the upstairs subfloor)?
2. How wide is the transformer?

Hi, you are right, And unfortunately I don't have all those dimensions... our superintendent just told me that it was impossible to do without cutting the ceiling. :(

The transformers I installed have small tabs sticking out, and you put screws in the joist and hang the tabs over the screws. To remove them you just slide the transformer up and it comes off the screws.

Bruce

As you can see from the pictures, the transformer is just lying on top of the drywall. Apparently the space above the ceiling is so shallow that she can't tilt the transformer up enough to pull it through the hole.

Were the transformers put in before the drywall was installed? They shouldn't have been. The code says that you are supposed to be able to access all electrical connections without damaging anything. The connection between the house wires and the transformers are supposed to remain accessible.

If they were installed after the drywall was put up, then they can come out through the holes, it's just a matter of figuring out how. If they went in, they can come out.