I've looked all over for parts in local shops, online and spoken with the couple repair centers in my local area to no avail. Another option was to convert to the current valve and burner assembly from a Suburban water heater, but at that point I would replace the heater altogether.
I fully understand the safety function of the dual solenoids and I will end up with two solenoids on the system. One solenoid will be the original that I have repaired with the solenoid coil of the new valve. The insides still look brand new and it is functioning perfectly. I actually ordered two of the new gas valves and I will install the complete valve a little further up-stream in the main gas line. That will duplicate the function of the upper solenoid that cuts off the primary feed.
The burner tube is solid, but covered in surface rust. That part I can still find as it is the same as on the current Suburban heaters. I was going to wait to order it, but you make a good point Joseph. Why not just change it now, before it rots out completely? I need to get one ordered.
I already added a Camco Hybrid Heat kit. You can see it in the bottom of the pic. It's the red wires coming out of where the drain valve used to be. I also added a new anode rod.
I do realize you must be very careful when dealing with propane appliances and am taking proper care to leak test all connections.
Jose
