replacement of water heater electric element

[RC and Samantha]

Hi everyone!

We have a Suburban SW10DE water heater. Has anyone replaced the electric heating element? Ours went out. We want to replace it and have read the thread saying you could get one at a local hardware store or home improvement center. We are trying to access the element and it seems that the burner lighter thingy is in the way.

We can't get our unit into a dealership until the 21st. Did I mention we're winter RV-ing in Whitefish, Montana. It's gotten quite cold here at night. We did the heat tape for water freezing yesterday, still not sure we did that correctly, but heck that's another thread right? We're going threw propane at pretty hefty rates already, and it appears that electric is by far the cheaper method of heating stuff even though we are metered.

So if anyone of you fine MOC-ers have done this and can explain it, that would be great. If you have photos that would be even better.

Thanx in advance for any replies.

Patty

[H. John Kohl]

Dick and Patty,
Yes you have to remove the propane tube that blocks access to the heating element. There are two different types of heating elements so take your old one with you to the store. I had to get a "narrow" large socket to fit in the area to remove the heating element. Make sure you have turned off the hot water breaker or better yet unplugged the trailer before you mess with the wires.
Let me know if you need more info.
Understand getting ready for cold weather.

[snfexpress]

H. John Kohl is right. I helped another person who had a Montana replace his electric element and he went out and bought a "normal" socket. I had to trim some of the water heater metal so that the socket would catch.