can i get a thermocoupler?

[kenlmarc]

I have a 67 LY with the original water heater but I cant get the piolot light to stay lit. I took the thermocoupler off and checked to see if it was stoped up but I couldn't tell , I could not get a wire to go throug the end that is near the thermo , this is the gas line i'm talking about. If it is not stoped up and the thermo dosn't work can i find a replacement?

[mkeith54]

Hi,
The thermocouple does not carry gas. The end of a thermocouple has a bulb (typically) that has two dissimilar metals that when heated gives off a micro voltage. That voltage holds open a Solenoid that allows gas for the pilot to flow. If when you hold down the button and can light the pilot but it goes out when you releas the gas button then a.) the thermocouple is not centered in the flame or b.) the thermocouple is defective. The thermocouple can be changed if it is bad, any large plumbing shop sould be able to help. If holding the button down does not let out gas to be lit then the gas valve may be bad