The threads in my suburban water tank have gotten kind of corroded. I am putting a new anode rod in, but it will not turn in very far.The threads are not stripped, but need a good clean out. Does anyone have a good method for doing this?Is there a thread chaser available, for cleaning up these threads?Thanks for any ideas,Jerry

Yes, you could chase the threads with a tap. You might try to clean the threads with an acid based cleaner like CLR, humidifier cleaner, or water softener cleaner. All of these will dissolve water-borne mineral deposits.

I've used a steel wire brush with a small head.

The threads are tapered in, they are pipe threads. It is expected to get tight as you install it. If the threads are clean and sharp, there is no need to chase them. Just snug up the anode, pressure test for leaks, if no leaks let it be, if it leaks, tighten until the leak stops.

I use a round wire brush to clean mine every year when I check the anode and drain the tank for winter. I think the brush was designed for use when soldering copper pipe.

3/4 pipe tap to chase the threads

anode rod threads | Good Sam Community

wa8yxm
Explorer III
May 29, 2014
There are two devices that are nearly identical.

One is called a "Thread chaser"

The other is a Tap

The Tap is designed to cut new threads in smooth metal it is thus somewhat more expensive.

What size: 1/2 inch Iron Pipe Thread.
mikeh449
Explorer
May 29, 2014
3/4 pipe tap to chase the threads
p220sigman
Explorer
May 29, 2014
I use a round wire brush to clean mine every year when I check the anode and drain the tank for winter. I think the brush was designed for use when soldering copper pipe.
eHoefler
Explorer II
May 29, 2014
The threads are tapered in, they are pipe threads. It is expected to get tight as you install it. If the threads are clean and sharp, there is no need to chase them. Just snug up the anode, pressure test for leaks, if no leaks let it be, if it leaks, tighten until the leak stops.
HappyKayakers
Explorer III
May 29, 2014
I've used a steel wire brush with a small head.
westend
Explorer
May 29, 2014
Yes, you could chase the threads with a tap. You might try to clean the threads with an acid based cleaner like CLR, humidifier cleaner, or water softener cleaner. All of these will dissolve water-borne mineral deposits.

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