Hello from AZ, 2012 FF XT-276

[pearseam]

New to the forum, have owned the FF for 2 years now and purchased used from young military couple who used it to transition from one duty station to another. I am excited to join the forum to learn more about the FF and to track arising issues and fixes/ upgrades and modifications. Looking forward to sharing ideas and assisting in resolving issues.
New projects on the horizon Suburban 6 gal Hot Water Tank replacement, City water fill connector and a stabilizer jack replacement.
Future interest: upgrading battery's and installing a solar panel's.
Thanks

[profdant139]

Welcome to our Club! What happened to the original water heater?

[pearseam]

Thanks for the welcome, the threads for the anode rod are rusted out. Not able to fully thread in the rod. Its a shame to replace the whole hot water tank just for that but don't want to have problems when we want to go camping.

[profdant139]

Gosh -- there must be a way to restore those threads! There is a thing called a tap and die set for restoring threads to stripped nuts -- the thread cutters go up to about three quarters of an inch, which is not quite enough for that socket. You might be able to order a special cutter for that opening -- it would sure be cheaper than replacing the whole unit!

[pearseam]

I agree, But with inspection of the threads and it being a 1 inch opening, by tapping out the threads may destroy what is left of them. I may give that a try anyway, I don't think they make "oops" anode rods for larger openings ,or I may have to use plumber dope to fill in the thread gaps. I am just surprised to see the threads rusting out like that in AZ due to our climate. I always drained the tank after each camp trip. None the less it did. I have already ordered a new tank online, should be here Monday, took advantage of the holiday sales. Even if I repair the old one I'll have a spare. They are not cheap to replace.

[Eagle]

Welcome, also have a 2013 XT-276, purchased new spring of 2012.


To repair/replace damaged threads, use a helicoil.....if not familiar with inserting one, any good, experienced mechanic can do it......or any machine shop.

They are made in lots of sizes and threads per inch.

Here is an example:

Amazon.com: Helicoil 5546-6 M6 x 1 Metric Coarse Thread Repair Kit: Automotive


And if slightly mechanically inclined, install it yourself ~ instructions here on youtube

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=79IYC4L68LU

And even WalMart sells them:

HELICOIL 3591-16CN1000 Helical Insert, SS, 1-14x1 L - Walmart.com