If I had selected the non-flexible OEM part number, sold by a local supplier, Dey Appliance, they recommended this part<\/a> calling for a 32-inch length anode with 3\/4″ NPT, and 0.84-inch diameter. Ultimately, I selected an ApplianPar flexible magnesium anode<\/a>, mostly because its close to meeting the specifications and is readily available – yes, its a bit narrower, but I’m fine to replace the anode more often from now on – shame on me for waiting this long.I’ll update this post after I install it tomorrow, assuming I can get the old one out, which worries me a bit. Which reminds me, I need to pick up a 1 1\/16 inch socket!<\/p>\n ** Update 10-2-2020 ** The old anode (far left in picture, below) backed out in less than a minute and with it came a load of scale from 10 years of build up, see photo below. Notice that the top of the old anode bent a little bit on its way out as very little magnesium remained, which made removing it even easier. Because of it bending on the way out and my previous measurements, I think it was the right call to go with a flexible anode for the replacement. Trying to get the flexible anode to screw in is a little challenging, but it seemed to snug up with only a turn or two. I was a little concerned about that, but after turning the water back on there are no leaks at the anode’s hex fitting.<\/p>\n After seeing the amount of scale on the old anode, I’m beginning to think I might need to reconsider softening my water. Saint Paul water is reportedly 5-6 grains of hardness<\/a>, which MPCA classifies as “moderately hard”<\/a>. The anode’s scale build up makes me question the condition of the copper pipe I installed to replace the galvanized cast iron piping shortly after we moved in 20 years ago. I’m guessing there will be more on this in a future post.<\/p>\n While researching this, I may need to take Merles up on their offer for a free lead test<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" I should have replaced our American Hot Water Heater VG6250T76NV’s magnesium anode years ago \u2013 COVID continues to give me a chance to catch up. Note: I’m assuming this water heater shipped with a magnesium anode, not an aluminum anode. … Continue reading
\nDad loaned me his 1 1\/16 socket (thanks Grandpa Don!) paired with his Campbell Hausfeld impact wrench. I used this combo in lieu of my Makita LXDT04 impact driver, which produces less than 1,000 kg\/cm to the Campbell Hausfeld’s ~3,000 kg\/cm, hello!<\/p>\n![](\"https:\/\/www.schwie.com\/brad\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/10\/img_2007-scaled.jpg\")
<\/p>\n