Water heater bypass installation

[Craig]

In the next few weeks I'll be installing a new water heater and would like to install a bypass kit while I'm at it. Here's my problem... Once installed, in my center bath configuration, there is no access to the rear of the water heater to turn the bypass on and off. The water heater is located behind the "lavatory skirt" which is fixed in place with rivets.

I was thinking of trying to install some sort of access door to the bypass, but wanted to see if anyone else out there has dealt with this problem.

Thanks!

[53flyingcloud]

Craig
I found mine to be the same...Just pop'em and install the by-pass kit.
Easy to put new rivets back in. If you don't have the rivet gun, check out Home Depot for at least two different models.
BTW, they're not very expensive. I paid less than 20$ for mine.
ciao

[Craig]

I did pop the rivets and remove the panel for the water heater and bypass installation, but I don't want to have to remove rivets every time I want to use the bypass......

[Pahaska]

Replace the rivets with screws. Stainless #6 x 1/4" will probably fit in the 1/8" rivet holes just fine. There are plenty of nice looking screw head styles to pick from.

I think a nice screw head looks better than a pop-rivet any day.

[wb13798]

i dont think they understand your problem . i did the by pass and never used it . it was in a 78 excella 500. arms wasnt long enough to reach the valves. in your trailer it is best a waste of time as you will have to cut holes beside the comode and i wouldnt do that. good idea but it is just too much trouble. lol
al