Change Out Water Heater Element

[remastersjr]

Have motorhome with Suburban Model SW10DE. Electric element is burned out. I thought an easy change out. BUT... I have nothing but the plastic insulator to grip in order to turn the element loose. I can see very little of the actual metal base of the element that looks like it would need a very large wrench or socket to fit it. I can grip the plastic insulator with a wrench but I'm afraid it's going to just break off. What do others do to grip that element and loosen it? Any help appreciated.

[SUMDALUS]

remastersjr,

Check at Lowes or Home Depot for an electric element wrench. They are located in the water heater section and are inexpensive. The only caution when using -- try not to overtorque when attempting to remove a tight element. The "wrench" will stretch. A 1 & 1/2 inch socket (usually 3/4" drive) will do the job, but there probably won't be enough room for the socket to get past the water heater's pan plate to get a bite on the element. I had to grind my socket down quite a bit for it to work.

Hope this helps.

[RV Wizard]

On the Suburban, you will need to remove the LP burner assembly to have access and room to remove the element. Use a 7/16" wrench to loose the small gas line at the valve feeding the burner. remove the nut that holds the burner to the heat exchanger (tank) and carefully remove it out of the way. This will allow you room to get the thin wall element tool on and remove the element. If I find one that is frozen on, the help of a cold chisel and hammer will loosen it usually. Good luck and keep us posted.