Old Mor-Flo (American Appliance Mfg. Corp) Water Heater

[Foswick]

The boat I just bought has an old water heater - the original from 1975 - an AMRS-7. It is actually in great shape, all things considered. The problem is that the thermostat is stuck on. So, you need to be careful not to overheat the water by manually shutting it off after 20 minutes or so.

I may, yet, be able to fix it. But, worst case scenario, it really just needs a new thermostat. I have the original manual (from 1972) which lists the part number and even the 1972 price ($11.00 USD).

However, this company apparently ceased to exist some time ago.

My assumption is that there is absolutely no way to find a replacement, but I thought I would ask. Of course, I might get lucky on E-Bay, or something.

My other thought was that there is nothing particularly sophisticated about a thermostat. There is probably a compatible thermostat somewhere that would work.

I hate to replace the whole heater when it's been so well-maintained, otherwise.

[Bellinghamster]

Take it apart and post a pic of the thermostat. I don't think electric water heater thermostats have changed much in the last 50 years. Note: a few years ago the thermostat failed in my 70g electric water heater at home (it was installed in 1974!!!). Replacement thermostat was readily available, and there was nothing else wrong with it but I decided to replace it with a smaller heat pump waterheater to save on electricity. They sure don't make 'em like that anymore!

[capt jgw]

It might well be the same as a new one. Take it out, go to a hardware store and see if it matches. I have better luck with small stores like Ace or True Value, the folks there usually know what they're doing unlike the big box stores. While it's out you might even be able to unstick it.

[Cheechako]

I agree, the T stat is likely a stock item.

[Foswick]

I'm encouraged. I'll crawl in there this weekend.