Update: The water heater ingition/operation continues to now function as it is supposed to...with one exception.
I flipped the ignition switch at the control panel and it ignited like it was supposed to. Then I opened up the external water heater compartment to take a look. The pilot was lit and operating. As I was touching the wires giving them each a little wiggle something happened. When I touched the thermal cutoff wire (gently) immediately the water heater shut off and the flame went out. One second later when I moved my hand off the thermal cutoff wire it immediately fired up again and operated as it should. Seems like this thermal cutoff wire is the culprit. I replaced it and it is now working once again.
Has anyone else seen this situation where the thermal cutoff wire seems a bit sensitive to touch/movement?
I'm hoping I fixed the problem, but I'll have to take it out for a couple days and use it to really feel comfortable that the problem is fixed.
Thanks!
