Water heater plumbing/fittings

[Exfireguy]

I still believe (as in a previous post of mine) that I have a faulty check valve at the heater output. I bought a Sharkbite connector to re-assemble the plumbing. But now my problem is getting the stuff apart. With the limited space to get access to the back of the heater, there doesn't seem to be a way to unscrew the assembly. Man, this stuff is tight! They used a type of pipe dope that sets up like glue. Is it advisable to try to heat it up with a very careful use of a torch? Would that even work? The last resort is to remove the entire heater and I hate the thought of that. Help!!

[doublechevy]

Before you go thru all of that make sure the bypass valve on the tank is in the right position.