Removing Water Heater Fittings

[2edgesword]

In preparation for winterizing my TT I purchased a water heater bypass kit. The kit requires removing the existing fittings on the water heater to attached the bypass kit fittings. I really I'm getting old and the orientation I'm in trying to loosen the existing fittings isn't ideal but with all the strength I could muster I couldn't budge the fittings on the heater.

I checking the threading on the fittings and they looking like standard threads that would loosen by turning counterclockwise. There is a warning label that says do not apply heat to the fittings so that isn't an option.

Before I really start looking at ways to get more leverage I'd like some input by knowledgable members hoping to avoid doing some expensive damage.

Below are a couple of pictures of the fittings. Any advise would be appreciated.

[LiftedAWDAstro]

You can use pliers on them, just don't force them. They are standard righty-tighty, lefty-loosy fittings.

[novaplum]

You can also use a plumbers basin wrench(usually used to install faucets) which has a long handle (good for leverage)

[Terry]

I would be a little concerned given it is an aluminum tank really pulling hard on them....would it be easier to just leave them and purchase the necessary adapters?

[Grumpy]

Buy a deep well socket to fit. That will put even pressure on the fitting.

[2edgesword]

Originally Posted by tafische

...would it be easier to just leave them and purchase the necessary adapters?

This is what I ended up doing.

[norty1]

I removed one on another camper because it was loose and leaking. Instead of Teflon tape, they had used a gooey pipe sealer compound. I cleaned and replaced it with Teflon tape and had no more problems. It was not corroded.

[2edgesword]

Originally Posted by norty1

I removed one on another camper because it was loose and leaking. Instead of Teflon tape, they had used a gooey pipe sealer compound. I cleaned and replaced it with Teflon tape and had no more problems. It was not corroded.

Yea, they used the gooey stuff on mine also. I used teflon tape on the fittings I added. The bypass held up under pressure when I pumped the antifreeze through the system and I'll check for leaks when I purge the system in the Spring.

[md2lgyk]

My 2010 Jayco came with a water heater bypass. I'm surprised your TT didn't.

[Seann45]

You can pick up a water heater bypass at most good RV parts stores... why try to reinvent the wheel?