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craigandsue's avatar
craigandsue
Explorer
Sep 02, 2015

Anode Rod Rusted Tight

I have not used my truck camper in a year so I sanitized the water tank. I tried to then drain the water heater and the anode rod is rusted tight and will not break loose. I tried WD-40 and liquid wrench. Worried I am going to strip the head or break it. Any ideas?
  • "Motto Of The Manufacturer"

    Never-seize ninety-eight dollars a year? (!) Screwum lettum buy a new one!
  • 2oldman wrote:
    You're gonna need a bigger wrench.


    Yes, you may need a bigger wrench, but first soak it in liquid wrench, or penetrating oil over night.

    After a good soaking, I would try both directions, tighten a little, loosen a little. If you get it out, be sure to use teflon tape, on the one you put back in. It makes a good seal, and makes removal much easier next time.

    I use a wire brush in my drill, to clean up the threads on the tank.

    Good luck,
    Jerry
  • 1) PBBlaster
    2) Sometimes turning it the opposite way (tighter) will start to break the corrosion
    3) Are you using a breaker bar and socket for leverage?

    No guarantee you won't mess up your threads.

    Like FJ said, use something on the threads of the new rod. Teflon tape is another option.
  • Use an impact wrench, if that won't work you may just have to leave it be. If and when you get it out, clean up the threads with a tap and consider using a touch of anti-seize on it when you put the new one in.

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