I'm not sure I understand the last thing in your question, but if you are saying there is no dip tube, that's the problem. The dip tube is located under the inlet nipple and goes to the bottom of the tank. Cold water comes in and is moved to the bottom of the tank through the tube and hot water is forced to the top. If the tube is broken directly below the inlet, the cold water remains at the top of the tank so you will get very little hot water. The tube is supported by a flange at its top and just hangs down. My guess is if you remove the nipple going into the tank, you will find the remains of the tube, perhaps only the flange end. Nothing to do about the remains that will be in the tank, just be sure the inlet is cleaned out of any broken pieces and replace the tube.