I've seen a lot of AquaHot service articles mention checking to see if the combustion chamber is warped but I haven't found anything definitive on the amount of warp. Per these pics, the diameter at the seam is about 4" and short diameter is about 3 3/4". Is there more life in it as is? If not as it is now, will "re-rounding" it by gentle taps with a rubber mallet against a form be beyond my pay grade?
I would straighten it out, but I'm sure Rudy will chime in as he is the guru of this..\
Actually I'm getting ready to rebuild my aqua Hot burner tomorrow and pull the combustion chamber again to clean it. Parts finally came in. I think what they're talking about though is the other side. Where the flame nozzle and photo disc seat into the chamber. If that is out of spec it will let more air in and you will burn rich. At least that's the way I see it. But Rudy's the man and he could let us know as well.
I have never had anyone share a thought on the shape of the tube of the combustion chamber that is attached to the swirler. So, don't think leaving it as it is or rounding it back up will make a difference.
But, there may be a crack in the the tube at the seam at the outlet end. A crack is okay up to 1.5 inches. A welder can weld it back up and grind smooth or replace the chamber to fix a longer crack.
Thanks Rudy --- one follow up question - is the warping normal and expected?
I do see some warping but not real often. So no surprise but not the norm.