Replacing original water heater in 1967 Overlander

[MAbdala]

Hello forum,

I am in need of replacing the original water heater in my 1967 Overlander. The original model is a 6-gallon Bowen gas model. I was looking into purchasing a I was told by a RV repair person that I'm better off replacing the whole unit instead of the water heater tank only. I thought the replacement units were sold as a package or bundle. What are the other parts I need to buy for the water heater unit replacement?

I was considering buying this model water heater: Atwood G6A-8E 96121

Has anyone had experience with this particular water heater, or with replacing them in general?

[Inland RV Center, In]

Originally Posted by MAbdala

Hello forum,

I am in need of replacing the original water heater in my 1967 Overlander. The original model is a 6-gallon Bowen gas model. I was looking into purchasing a I was told by a RV repair person that I'm better off replacing the whole unit instead of the water heater tank only. I thought the replacement units were sold as a package or bundle. What are the other parts I need to buy for the water heater unit replacement?

I was considering buying this model water heater: Atwood G6A-8E 96121

Has anyone had experience with this particular water heater, or with replacing them in general?

You will also have to add a "plate" to the side of the trailer, as new water heaters are not as large on the exterior as they were many years ago.

After you install the adapter plate, using Vulkem sealer and Olympic rivets, you then cut a hole in the plate for the new water heater.

Water heaters are also available from dealers in California.

Andy

[blickcd]

I replaced the original 6 gallon Bowen in my '79 with a 6 gallon Atwood. I got the base model, standing pilot with manual ignition.

My new water heater matched up with the hole in the side of the trailer just fine so no modifications were needed. Might be a different case with a '67 though.

I was also able to remove the old aluminum cover from my Bowen and put it on the new Atwood. Atwood has the flue grille mounted on the access door so I took the original one off the Bowen and mounted that on the new Atwood flue. It wasn't too much effort to maintain the original look.

Christopher

[Ganglin]

We purchased our 10 gallon here. They shipped quickly - no sales tax - door included if you decide to use it. Their pricing on the model your looking at:

Atwood 6 Gallon Water Heater G6A-8E

[68 TWind]

Andy is correct on the size, the newer heaters are smaller than the old ones. I had to fabricate a panel and then cut it for the new heater. You might want to consider going with the 120v/LP model Atwood. When I get to a campground and if I need hot water fast I will turn on the LP switch and electric switch. It will run with both and it heats the water very fast, then I just switch off the LP mode and use the electric mode. I figure I'm paying for the electricity at the campsite, might as well save my propane. Of course, when I'm camping at the farm with no electricity the LP works great and the and DSI ignition I just flip the switch, no pilot light to mess with.

[jbobarino3]

What model hot water heater gas control valve is in my 1967 Trade Wind? I am wanting to replace it - look original - along with the pilot burner control tube assembly - it is all rusted!

[finn21]

In my 1951 I installed a on demand, ventless propane water heater, the size of a shoe box. If you are interested I will look up the model.

[Venturewest]

Originally Posted by finn21

In my 1951 I installed a on demand, ventless propane water heater, the size of a shoe box. If you are interested I will look up the model.

Hi, I know you posted this a while ago, but I would interested in knowing which model you purchased and what your experience has been so far.
Thanks

[finn21]

I now have this water heater in both my trailers, a 1951 and a 1954 and have had no trouble with them, water is hot, no smell. I know it is an 'EXCEL' brand, I am in florida now and cannot get the evact model number until next week. I may have posted that info on another thread.

[rugjenkins]

Originally Posted by finn21

I now have this water heater in both my trailers, a 1951 and a 1954 and have had no trouble with them, water is hot, no smell. I know it is an 'EXCEL' brand, I am in florida now and cannot get the evact model number until next week. I may have posted that info on another thread.

Hey Finn,
I really like this unit. I checked it out on amazon-nice. Would like to know your whole setup for the water.
Thanks,Matt

[finn21]

I have a five gallon fresh water tank under the street side with a battery and pump, and a shop made waste tank tucked in between the floor and belly pan. More than enough for weekend trips.