Anode rod replacement force

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dikshe

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I've never replaced the anode rod on my 10 yr old water heater. I replaced the dip tube - that was easy but the anode rod won't budge with a 24" breaker bar applied to it. I'm wondering if too much force could rupture the tank. for 2 weeks I've spayed penetrating oil on the threads but it's still stuck. So 2 questions:
Can I safely apply heat with a propane touch to the threads ?
Can I rupture the tank by applying too much force using the breaker bar ?

thanks
 

Billy Mays

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Hi! Billy Mays Here!

All you need to is heat the threads slooowly.

Heat the threads slooowly.
Heat the threads slooowly.
Then take a wrench and pull on it! Use a hammer to break it free!

Get it done and remember me!
 

NHmaster

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I use a 1/2" drive impact wrench and socket. Heating it will do nothing. May in fact make it worse because it's going to expand the plug even more.
 

Redwood

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I do the same thing as NH Master...
In fact how do you think they install them at the factory?
 

dikshe

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I've never replaced the anode rod on my 10 yr old water heater. I replaced the dip tube - that was easy but the anode rod won't budge with a 24" breaker bar applied to it. I'm wondering if too much force could rupture the tank. for 2 weeks I've spayed penetrating oil on the threads but it's still stuck. So 2 questions:
Can I safely apply heat with a propane touch to the threads ?
Can I rupture the tank by applying too much force using the breaker bar ?

thanks
Ok - according to the serial number on my water heater it is really 13 yrs old. I successfully replaced the dip tube - and after 3 weeks of applying liquid wrench the anode nut finally broke loose. Only about an 1/8" rod maybe 15" was all that was left of the original anode rod.
So I installed the new anode rod - it was magnesium - is this the correct type of material for my region ? I live in Westminster Colorado and my water comes from a high country stream which fills a local resevoir.
The magnesium rod cost me $ 25 - the plumbing supply place was out of alumimun.
 
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