New gaskets for Atwood 6 gal water heater

[j54mark]

Question: How is one SUPPOSED to install the gasket retaining rings on the burner inlet and exhaust tubes of an Atwood water heater?

On our last outing we were set up so that a very strong wind was blowing on the streetside rear quarter. When the water heater was firing we had the unmistakable odor of propane exhaust in the bedroom. Investigation showed total failure of all gaskets. It probably had been this way for some time, but it took the strong wind blowing from the right direction to make it apparent.

So, I got the gasket kit and installed same. The problem area was the two metal rings which go down over the gaskets for the burner inlet and exhaust tubes. These rings are made slightly smaller than the tube over which they go (no joke, they really are).

Oh I got them on ok. But it was through brute force. I am guessing there is actually a technique or perhaps even a special tool for this.

So my question is, oh yes, I asked it already.

Mark