Heater rod threads

[Oscarbear007]

Good afternoon,

My rod threads are corroded as all hell, (sat on a lot for 2 years with it out) does anyone know what size the threads are so I can purchase a tap and die to rethread it. Tools are cheaper to buy than taking it too the dealer to fix, and then I could use it again if I need to someday.

[chuckster57]

I simply use the anode rod. Turn it in a 1/2 turn, turn back out. Turn in 1full turn, turn back out. I use my little finger to clean the threads between screwing it in. When done use the white plumbers pipe sealant to lubricate the threads.

[Northofu1]

Yesterday I used a plumbers wire brush to clean the threads on the rod and the water heater. New orange tape and went in no problems. Fired it up and no leaks.
https://precisionbrush.com/plumbing-brushes

[flybouy]

Originally Posted by Oscarbear007

Good afternoon,

My rod threads are corroded as all hell, (sat on a lot for 2 years with it out) does anyone know what size the threads are so I can purchase a tap and die to rethread it. Tools are cheaper to buy than taking it too the dealer to fix, and then I could use it again if I need to someday.

If you're talking about the anode rod it's 3/4"-14 NPT Pipe Tap, Coat the tap with grease so the shavings stick to it and fall inside the tank. Run it in until you feel it cutting then turn it counterclockwise the clockwise until it cuts the threads then remove it. Use a rag to remove the metal filings then repeate the process until the tap runs easily thru the hole. Then flush the tank out with wate thuroughly.

[skids]

If you don't have a 3/4"-14 NPT Pipe Tap, maybe you can find a plug with similar threads and use a Dremel to slot the threads on each side. It won't cut new threads but it can clean up existing threads.

[bobbecky]

Go on Amazon and search for this: Accusize Industrial Tools 3/4'' to 14 H.S.S. Taper Pipe Tap-Npt, 3-1/4'' Oal, 1-3/8'' Thread Length, American Standard, 5 Flutes, Npt-34
When you use this tap, do not cut threads any more than the original threads, just use it to clean up the existing threads. Don't worry about any debris, as you already have the anode removed, just flush out anything that accumulates with water so you have the tank clean before installing the new anode with several layers of Teflon tape.