[CaptJim4635]

I have to change out my water heater on 2000 38 Open. Any idea on how the plastic fittings attached come apart? Or any other advice before i get started. Thanks JM

[Chris Burkard]

Capt. Jim,

Do you mean the Whale quick disconnect fittings? If so, there should be a tab on the side of the fittings that you can manipulate with a flat head screwdriver. Be careful not to break the fittings. I have not had to undo one in a while, so I can't remember exactly how they actuate, but it should be apparent when you take a close look at them.

Good Luck and let us know how it works out.

[CaptJim4635]

Hope they are the Whale quick disconnect fittings. Found tutorial on U Tube looked fairly simple to work. Will probably start project tomorrow. It looks as though i will have to dismantle casing on the water heater to get around heat exchanger on Cummins. Has anybody installed one recently that may have some input?

[CaptJim4635]

Ok water heater in, had to break down tin cover to fit tank in space. (same for removal). Then rebuilt once in the space including all the fittings. Quick connect fittings were easy to deal with. It got a little messy (antifreeze) with the hoses from engine both during removal and installation. Better planning in this area probably saved alot of clean up. Once together we had leak in one of the quick connects. Found hose end a little barked up. Cut back a short way and made sure hose all the way in which fixed leak. Make sure you have plenty of time. Longer than i expected. And try not to do on a 90 degree day.