Can't remove anode rod or fill tube???

Handiman

Handiman

New Member
Messages
21
Reaction score
0
Points
0
Location
Nevada
Hello, I'm trying to lengthen the usable life of my water heater by replacing the anode rod (ZINC?) and using an angled fill (dip) tube (to really get all the debris out).

Problem is I can't get either one off. It's almost as if they are welded on there with rust and corrosion. I tried pretty hard using a breaker bar but I don't want to break the actual fittings so I stopped. I used all kinds of PB BLASTER and WD40 to no avail letting it soak for days. Any other way to get these off?
Thanks
 
Last edited:
Got an impact wrench? I'm told that's how they're installed...with the age and corrosion, it may be the only way to remove them as well without twisting the plumbing into a pretzel.
 
I take them out with 1 hand and no need to hold the tank with my battery powered Milwaulkee Impact gun...

330779_med.gif
 
caveat

Just beware that if the tank is marginal, you can break the welds when you create the force necessary to remove them. Also, the curved dip tube ONLY keeps the tank clean when there is enough velocity to do so. Most new faucets with their limited flow will not do it. The bathtub and clothes washer are usually the only things that make it work these days. AND, the stuff it stirs up does not "disappear". It has to go someplace and that someplace is usually the aerators of the faucets, plugging them up.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.

Similar threads

B
Nipple type anode stuck in tank
Replies
5
Views
2K
Fitter30
Fitter30
R
My DIY Bradford White anode rod replacement
Replies
0
Views
3K
Raiden
R
J
Powered Anode Rod on Side Outlet?
Replies
1
Views
2K
jonpaw
J
S
Trouble Removing American Standard Bath Stem Valve + additional questions
Replies
0
Views
491
Steve3499
S
The harrymanimus
My anode rod replacement quest for Bradford White (only threads sticking out)
Replies
4
Views
4K
RichPKui
R
Back
Top