Cleaning Rusted Water Heater Anode Rod Threads

[yoloinsc]

We've had our 2015 3711FL for a couple years now. We're the second owners.

The previous owner somehow let the area where the anode rod screws in to rust. Now, each subsequent time I need to put the anode rod in, it's a massive hassle that can take upwards of 30 minutes for the threads to catch.

The awkward location of the anode rod doesn't help either.

Does anyone have any suggestions on how to make this an easier process?

 

[MandK]

If the threads are that bad you may need to chase the threads with a tap. My suburban tank on my Montana was 3/4” npt. Don’t run the tap in too far, the threads are tapered, just enough to clean up the threads. Use a plumbers fitting brush to keep them clean going forward.

 

[RMcNeal]

Maybe also clean up with some naval jelly?

 

[yoloinsc]

Maybe also clean up with some naval jelly?

That looks like it would work well, but would it be ok for that to get into the water heater and then possibly consume?

 

[RMcNeal]

Actually, you're right. Naval jelly is quite toxic and not rated for potable water. I should have checked that first, sorry.

 

[RMcNeal]

AI recommends cleaning it up with a brass wire brush, thread chaser as MandK suggested, and a solution of white vinegar or CLR. Forget about the naval jelly.

 

[BB_TX]

3/4”-14 pipe tap will clean the threads. Just run it in and out several times just barely snug going in. You just want to clean the rust, not enlarge the threads. Then pipe tape on the anode rod threads. I used one each year before re-inserting the anode rod.

 

[beeje]

Search for a anode/petcock combo. You can let the water out with no tools. I drain ours after every trip.

 

[BuckandTeresa]

My threads were corroded but not too bad, but were difficult to thread.

I bought a set of power drill wire brushes on Amazon for next to nothing. I put the drill on reverse and put some pressure against the side as I work it around the threads. Works great.

The weight of the anode rod can make it tricky to get the rod aligned correctly to the threads. Teflon tape gives a good seal, rather than TFE paste, which I normally use in pipe joints.

 

[BuckandTeresa]

Here the brushes are:

https://www.amazon.com/Stainless-Twisted-Bristles-Different-Cleaning/dp/B0FF4H3XWF/ref=mp_s_a_1_1?s=industrial&sr=1-1

 

[mlh]

If you go the retread route get a tap with all the threads on it. You a get pipe taps with half the threads cut off. This aids in tapping pipe threads and not in cleaning up dirty threads.
Lynwood

 

[Rene T]

I know what you mean as far as the anode being heavy. You could cut off half the length with a hacksaw. You will now have to check more frequently if you make it shorter

 

[Bkurt]

I use a deep socket with tissue in the bottm then I use the extension rod. Makes it much easier