Do water heaters come w/shut off valves?

[2PNPOD]

My 71 Caravel has water leaking out from the outside water heater access panel. I'm not sure what's leaking, the valves to/from or the tank itself.

We were planning a two-day trip tomorrow and was wondering if there's a water heater bypass valve, or some way to stop the water from entering the water heater. We don't really need hot water for this trip, but can't have it leaking.

Any suggestions would be awesome.

Thanks everyone.

[idroba]

Val, Scott:

Unfortunately there are none on your Caravel. None from the factory, and I didn't add any or change the water heater plumbing when I owned it. Also see PM.

Rob (your PO)

[2PNPOD]

Thanks Rob, just saw your PM. It's certainly great to hear from you and see you on the forums! Were looking at your response now...

Thank you THANK YOU for your help. I'll let you know what we find out.

[Argosy 7728]

On my 77 there are 3 valves by the water heater inside the cabinets. Close the 2 that are on the lines going into the water heater. Then 3rd valve is a bypass valve, I open it when I put anti freeze in so none of it enters the water heater. Mine still has all the factory plumbing. So all this is assuming that someone has not changed something.

(edit)Well never mind, I just learned something new. LOL

[Kevin245]

Have you checked the T&P valve to see if that is the leak source?


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[2PNPOD]

Argosy & Kevin, thanks so much for your replies. We have the water heater out and are working on tracking down the leak; either in the water tank itself or the connections. Not sure just yet as we have only just removed it. Will hopefully get some pics posted.

[2PNPOD]

New Atwood 6 gal water heater on its way from vintage trailer supply (great folks). Hoping to have our plumber do some pex mods once this baby arrives. Looking forward to the electronic spark ignition!

[2PNPOD]

Water heater is going in today, hoping to go camping tomorrow

We purchased the Atwood 6 gal direct spark ignition. Only thing I haven't researched is what to use as a sealer around the water heater flange/airstream shell