[VAC] Re: Water Heater re-visted

[RJ.Dial@xxxxxxx]

On these newer trailers, the HW heaters (and heaters) can be replaced 
with new units without disrupting the external look of the body and 
cabinets, and replacement is a more palatable option than the older 
vintage units.
But, each situation is different.  A HW heater that was used 3 times a 
year using only treated city water is going to be a different story 
than one used year round off of rural well water.  Money and time are 
not frivolous, I'd really make sure what the problem is before 
replacing, because there is no such thing as an easy replacement - 
Airstream built the trailer & cabinets around these things.  If your 
tank is clean, then the control valve is an option.  That is usually a 
shotgun approach, as the failure mode of these things are damaged 
O-Rings, ruptured diaphragms or plugging by contamination, all 
determinable by disassembly and inspection.
 
But, it all comes down to your comfort level and skills....
Best of luck,
RJ