changing hot water heater

[HydroTherapy]

Hello...My 1987 C34 has its original hot water heater.  There is rust all around it and the hot water has a bad smell.   I think it is time for a new one.   I have searched this site for information, but having trouble finding any.  

My question...Will the hot water heater come out the access door, or do I need to start taking things apart?  Must I replace it with the exact one?  

Thanks,

David Cassuto
HydroTherapy

[Ted Pounds]

David,

Try searching on "hot + water + heater".  I found lots of stuff.   I noted that one person said you need to remove the sink to get it out.  However it looks like the PO on my boat removed the access door and frame to get it out.  (Either that or he removed the frame before discovering it wouldn't fit.)

Ted

[Terry]

There is a lot of info on this site when you search - that's how I learned what to do.  My boat is 3 years older - but I had to take the frame off the access door and the heater pulled right through.  Although I replaced with the exact one, if you're mechanically inclined you might be able to fit another in.  However, I've never heard of anybody complaining about the original Catalina installed model so I'm not aware of any upgrades.  But check "projects" and you might find something.  Whenever I find one more outlet or wire on a new unit than what I'm replacing, I have more trouble than I care to deal with.  Probably the biggest thing to know is to burp the system when you are done.  Search the website and you'll get plenty of info.  Good luck...

[Jim Price]

One other thing you might consider.  If you have the "square" Seward heater (6 gal.), then it will fit through the door opening with frame removed (I have to work on mine & have not actually done this yet but I trust the 34 Board) .  But call Seward (in CA)and talk with them.  They have parts, tank, fittings, valves, electrical, etc. that can be replaced without having to buy a complete new heater.  They suggested that all I might need is a new inner tank for, I think, around $70+.  Mine is leaking fresh water at fittings where engine coolant passes through (on back side).  I tested heater (AC)function and it got hot quick so I hope to get by with parts instead of "whole".  Give them a call before you tear everything out.

[Tom Glennon]

I replaced the Raritan round water heater on my 1987 Catalina this spring.... project was straight forward.... remove the sink, the drawer and frame... while I was at it, I replumbed the sink drain as outlined on the "projects" site... I am really pleased with the new Raritan tank.... water gets hot in about 20 mins with the engine running.  And, now the sink drains as it should... not into the other sink!