Re-reading this thread made me begin to wonder why the manufacturer even gave a torque rating. Then it hit me. It takes so very little to snug up the anode rod, it is tempting to over tighten it. So, basically, in a very simplistic interpretation, the manufacturer's statement is basically saying, --- It don't take much. It's not like its a wheel on an automobile under stress or a vital part of an airplane engine, or a race car engine. It's just a plug that goes in a hole. It doesn't turn, it doesn't move, it doesn't do anything except sit there, so don't over tighten, it's not necessary.
Actually, I never thought about this subject until this thread came up. I've always just finger tightened the plug and then used a socket and gave it a little twist till it stopped, nothing more. No serious pressure. Makes removal real easy too.
Unfortunately, this thread has now alerted me and now I will never have such a simplistic view again. I'll look at that anode rod plug and always be wondering now. Sheesh! I've got to get a life!
