I am in the process of putting the systems back in my 75 overlander and wondering if I should get a new water heater? I don't know if the old one works or not as it was disconnected. also wondering what water heater will be best? I like the idea of gas or electric but is the electronic ignition worth the extra $150.00? Also any one shopped around on these who has the best prices?
Can you tell if the original WH is a Bowen? Maybe a 6 gallon model. If so, Atwood makes a 6 gallon unit. If you could post pics of what you have. We could determine if the Atwood is a more or less bolt in replacement.
Check on prices at Adventure RV or PPL Motorhome websites.
Yes, in my opinion the electronic ignition is worth the extra cost. No going out to light it in the rain, no problems getting it lit in the wind, and so on. Just push the switch to on and in 15 minutes you have hot water.
I went through that with my '76. I foolishly replaced the thermostat on the water heater without bothering to test it to see if it leaked. Soon enough, there was water dripping out below the water heater.
I replaced it with a 10 gallon Atwood, just the old style 'light me outside' version, same size. I was able to save the stainless steel door though which was great. If I had to use the new door I would have needed to cut the rubrail out by the water heater.
We like the dual-fuel, light-me-inside water heater.
When we boondock, we use propane.
When we stay in an RV park, we use their electricity.
Avoid the tankless water heaters that are becoming more and more popular in new RVs. They are not suitable for boondocking because you can't take "Navy" showers.
Hope this helps!
__________________ Ken L
2019 Flying Cloud 27FB
2020 GMC Sierra 1500 Crew Cab 6.2L Max Tow
This website is not affiliated with or endorsed by the Airstream, Inc. or any of its affiliates. Airstream is a registered trademark of Airstream Inc. All rights reserved. Airstream trademark used under license to Social Knowledge LLC.