How to remove this $@#%! water heater

[80BELLA]

Ok, so I removed all the screws on exterior frame of the water heater on my 1980 Caravelle and busted my lip removing the gas line (glad the dr insisted on tetanus shot last year), but it still isn't budging. Is there something anchoring it on the inside? White caulk is on the inside of the frame - can't see or feel any fastener.

[cameront120]

You might have butyl tape around the perimeter that can be pretty tenacious on it's own. The butyl might also be hiding rivets that could also be holding the flange to the skin. Once the water lines are disconnected and all fasteners removed, the heater should slide right out.

[TG Twinkie]

Run a putty knife around and behind the outside flange cutting the sealant. It might take some work to free it up.

[Becky B.]

Sometimes, inside there's a strap that holds the whole thing in place (keeps it from jiggling while trraveling).