Suburban water heater

[ronspradley]

My Suburban water heater VFDSI - 6 - 3 does not completely shut off when I flip the inside the coach switch to off. It still has a small flame at the burner tube where it connects to the valve assembly. This flame comes up and be seen in the slots for the fuel/air mix at the beginning of the burner tube. Of course this small flame goes out when I turn off the gas at the tank.

I had trouble with this water heater igniting and replaced the burner tube and ignitor/exciter.

What do I need to look for here? Thanks for the help.

ronspradley

[Cougarkid]

Well, leaking propane (flame) sounds like a bad gas valve. Not shutting off completely.

You could always try tapping on it and see if it closes.

[ronspradley]

i have the perfect ball peen hammer for that. Got it from my grandfather and it must be a hundred years old. I have always liked the hit it with a hammer approach. But if I hit it and the flame goes out, then what? Does that confirm that it is the valve and that it needs to be replaced? Or is there some kind of fix like taking it apart and spitting in it and putting it back together? I am not always successful with putting things back together without parts left over but I do have spit.

ronspradley

["007"]

I would check the wire lead connections for tightness and make sure they are clean connections.

[ronspradley]

Will check the wires again when next I visit MH. And report what happens. I am still guessing that I need a new gas valve or need to fix the existing.

ronspradley

[SUMDALUS]

ronspradley,

If you ascertain that the gas valve is indeed bad (and, based on your descriptions, I'm pretty sure it is), you may have a serious problem finding a replacement valve. I was unable to locate one through my supply sources (including Suburban).

The direct replacement water heater is Suburban's SW6D. Considering the lack of repair parts and the age of the water heater, this may be your bet. [p.s. A new water heater will also come with a two year warranty.]

Hope this helps.