When you state 'hot rod'are you talking about an aftermarket small electric element that has been ADDED via the drain hole to your 'gas only' water heater
OR
are you talking about the OEM Electric element on a combo electric/gas water heater???
Aftermarket.......RV MFG/Water Heater MFG are NOT responsible and installation/use of that hott rod has voided your water eater warranty
If your Water Heater is a combo OEM unit then RV MFG IS responsible for repairs----depending on warranty time limit (Water Heater MFG S/B 2 yr warranty)