[Al Skierkiewicz]

Ryan,
There is no rule as to the distro orientation and it sounds like a unique idea for your design. Please be advised that the inspectors at all events will need to see the distro to check the wire guage and installation. It is best to protect your electrical system from picking up debris from the floor. I can tell you that field personel pick up the equivalent of a five gallon bucket of parts over the course of a three day event.