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Atwood 10gal water heater

November 03, 2012, 03:50:18 pm

The water outlet threads were damaged by the previous owner and I am unable to replace with new plastic plug. Because the threads are aluminum, can they be re-threaded. Also, has anyone used the camco metal plug in this type of repair? Any help would be greatly appreciated. Does anyone know the replacement cost if nothing works (winterizing now so not a rush issue).     

                                  Thanks for the help,
                                        Josh

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #1 – November 03, 2012, 04:39:30 pm

I would try a thread chaser (sometimes called a thread repair tap) first. We bought a new 10 gal (model#GCH10A-4E) from American RV. I saw prices ranging from $795 to $595 or so... I think we paid the later. Here is a link, but shop around if you go that route. It appears to have gone up a little... Atwood GCH10A-4E GCH10A4E Gas and Electric 10 Gallon RV Trailer Water Heater
Don

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #2 – November 04, 2012, 05:21:39 am

I have used a Thread chaser on ours no problems, I would use the 7/8 inch plastic plug much easier to remove and will not harm the threads .

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #3 – November 04, 2012, 08:56:22 am

If it is aluminum, make sure you use an anti-seize compound on a metal plug.
Available from any auto parts store

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #4 – November 04, 2012, 02:04:38 pm

My plastic plug started leaking a little recently. After removing the plug I did not like the looks of the aluminum threads, but I did not have a thread chaser available at the time. Tried a new plastic plug without much success. Resolved the issue by applying pipe dope to the plug before installing. A quick fix with no more leaking and I'm a happy camper.

Roland

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #5 – November 04, 2012, 02:19:23 pm

There is not sacrificial anode in the Atwood water heater,  therefore use only plastic so I've been told.  Chappell

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Re: Atwood 10gal water heater

Reply #6 – November 04, 2012, 05:20:47 pm

All tapered pipe threads like the hot water drain plug require thread sealer to prevent leaks and over tightening.

Many use Teflon based sealers like Permatex. Some like Teflon tape, but we find it does not work as well as thread sealers.

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