1985 AO Smith conservationist

[Mdog22]

I have an old AO Smith gas water heater model PGCS 40 and it does not seem
that the burner cover plate is designed to be removed even after taking out
the 3 screws and detaching everything. This is the exact same one that I have
but I found this picture on reddit. Anyone have a clue on how to get the
metal cover plate for the burner off??

 

[Reach4]

Lift up.

 

[Sponsor]

 

[Mdog22]

Lift up.

Lifting up worked to get the green vinyl cover off but not for the metal housing sitting under it.
There were no screws or hooks or anything that would allow it to come off. I ended up cutting
the front of the metal box with an oscillating saw and then bending it back after I made the repair.
I sealed the seems with metal duct tape. Gonna replace the thing this weekend just needed hot water
between now and then.

 

[Master Plumber Mark]

That is Your best bet
take the whole heater out and install a new water heater