Can't get anode rod in

gmacklem · 03-19-2016, 04:20 PM

I removed my anode rod last fall and attempted to put in a new one today. It won't thread all the way in. There is some white substance in the inner threads, probably the sealant used instead of the tape. Any suggestions on how to remove it?

**Herk7769** · 03-19-2016, 04:27 PM

The Anode is a pipe fitting and will not (and does not need to) go all the way in.

The anode just needs to be tightened just enough to be watertight.

Use a wire brush to clean the rust off the threads and using Teflon Tape (or Teflon white pipe dope - its OK), put a couple of wraps of tape over the anodes threads.

Tighten snug (DO NOT crank it in! - you will never get it back out).

If it leaks (it should not) you can give it another 1/4 turn to stop it from leaking.

davel1971 · 03-19-2016, 04:28 PM

what do you mean it won't thread all the way in? You won't make all the threads go in. It's pipe thread, so it has a taper too it. You will get about half or a little more of the threads in.

Nash · 03-19-2016, 05:09 PM

What size tap would I need to tap the hole for the anode?

OldCoot · 03-19-2016, 05:13 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Nash

What size tap would I need to tap the hole for the anode?

3/4" NPT, but I would not use it to do anything but clean the threads. DO NOT start cutting threads (removing steel).

Nash · 03-19-2016, 05:14 PM

Thanks OC

Ford Idaho · 03-19-2016, 05:16 PM

A thread chaser might be a better option.

3/4-inch NPT

TLAK · 03-19-2016, 05:17 PM

My trick is put some faucet grease on the anode threads and screw it in and out by hand a couple times until it goes in easy. Then I wipe it off, put the pipe tape on it and screw it in permanently.

gmacklem · 03-20-2016, 01:34 PM

Thanks everyone, it is in and I was able to finish de-winterizing.

hotzfamily · 03-20-2016, 07:16 PM

I'm jealous. I've got another month before I can even dream of de-winterizing! Glad it worked out.

Captn.Ken · 03-20-2016, 07:33 PM

The white buildup I found on mine is Calcium buildup in the threads which were previously exposed to the tank water. I cleaned some of it out, but like everyone has said, the anode won't thread all the way in. I use teflon tape to seal and never leak a drop.

silverback 35ts · 03-22-2016, 03:27 PM

As for the "white substance" it is most likely calcium from the water, and if it has became hard, the only way to properly clean it out is with a pipe tap, that will re-thread the threads and also clean out the pipe dope and the calcium build up in the back threads.
I have had a tap for this purpose for many years and every spring just run the tap up the treads and i am good to go with a new anode rod.
Hope this helps and Happy camping

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