Water heater problems

[Saskatoonscampe]

Having some issues with the water heater on my 1973 Scamper. It’s a Unitrol, big red button mounted vertically for temperature and a red button mounted horizontal for lighting , I believe. The horizontal button is not moving, no matter how much I try. Maybe it’s seized up through unused or maybe it’s toast? Anyone have any suggestions or maybe an instruction manual? Not the end of the world if I can’t get it going but would be pretty handy. Thanks.

[Saskatoonscampe]

Thanks for the suggestions, managed to get it moving, just seized up through not being used I guess. Lots of penetration oil and patience. Now to see if it actually works.

[Tom_Cooper]

Maybe the button is somehow damaged? Or something fell into its mechanism. Have you noticed anything strange?

[westend]

The horizontal button is probably the valve for the pilot when lighting. Turn your temperature knob all the way down, try the horizontal button. If it is seized, you may get it to move by introducing a penetrating oil (like Rust Blaster or similar) and minimally moving or tapping on the button. Be careful not to break the plastic. If that happens or you are unable to move it, a new gas valve is the solution.

[Saskatoonscampe]

I’ll see if I can find a model number. Yes tried pushing down whilst turning. Thanks guys.

[CavemanCharlie]

Have you tried pushing down on it while turning ????

[enblethen]

Make and model of water heater?

Atwood manual