Field Notes on the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters
For anyone who has ever experienced a failure in their RV’s water heater control board, the relief that comes from a reliable replacement is immeasurable. The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters is one such component that aims to simplify the often-tricky installation process for these critical electronics. Manufactured by Dinosaur Electronics, Inc., this kit promises a secure and straightforward mounting solution for their ignitor boards, specifically designed to integrate with Atwood/Hydroflame water heaters without the need for drilling. My journey to this particular mounting kit began during a rather inconvenient roadside breakdown, where a malfunctioning control board left my RV without hot water.
The situation demanded an immediate and effective solution, and the prospect of avoiding further damage to the water heater itself was a primary concern. Upon receiving the kit, my first impression was one of practical utility. The components felt solid and well-formed, suggesting a product designed for its intended purpose without unnecessary frills. While other options might involve direct mounting with screws or adhesive, this kit’s primary selling point is its ability to circumvent any potential for puncturing the water tank. The immediate feeling upon unpacking was one of cautious optimism; it appeared to be a thoughtfully engineered solution to a common RV maintenance headache.
Real-World Testing: Putting DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters to the Test
First Use Experience
My primary testing environment for this mounting kit was within the confined space of an RV’s water heater compartment, a typical scenario for Atwood/Hydroflame units. This location is not known for its spaciousness, often requiring some contortion to access and work on components. The installation process itself was remarkably intuitive, requiring no special tools beyond what one would typically find in an RV repair toolkit.
The kit’s design facilitated a surprisingly clean and direct attachment to the existing mounting points on the water heater chassis. I did not encounter any issues with fitment or alignment, and the clear instructions provided made the process straightforward. A minor surprise was how securely the aluminum adapter plate seated against the water heater housing, providing a stable foundation for the electronic board.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, including travel across varied climates and terrains, the mounting kit has held up admirably. The components show no signs of degradation, such as cracking or corrosion, despite the occasional exposure to humidity within the RV. The clear plastic cover remains securely in place, effectively protecting the ignitor board from dust and debris that tend to accumulate in such areas.
Maintenance has been virtually nonexistent; a quick wipe-down during general RV checks is all that’s required. Comparing this to previous experiences with less robust mounting solutions, such as makeshift brackets or tape, highlights the durability and ease of use of this dedicated kit. It has reliably kept the control board secure and protected, ensuring consistent operation of the water heater.
Breaking Down the Features of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters
Specifications
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters is a carefully curated set of components designed for a specific purpose. It includes an aluminum adapter plate, which forms the core of the mounting system. Accompanying this is a clear small cover, intended to shield the ignitor board from environmental contaminants. Finally, the kit is supplied with all necessary mounting hardware for a complete installation.
The aluminum construction of the adapter plate offers a good balance of strength and resistance to corrosion, crucial for an application near a water heater. This ensures a durable and long-lasting mount. The clear cover, while simple, is made of a durable plastic that provides good visibility of the board while offering essential protection.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this mounting kit is to provide a secure and non-invasive method for attaching a Dinosaur Electronics ignitor board to Atwood/Hydroflame water heaters. It achieves this exceptionally well, fulfilling its purpose without complication. The kit’s design directly addresses the critical need to avoid drilling into the water heater tank, a potential disaster scenario for DIY installers.
Its main strength lies in its direct compatibility and ease of installation, requiring no modifications to the water heater itself. A potential minor weakness, if one were to nitpick, is that the clear cover is not entirely sealed; however, for the intended environment, its level of protection is perfectly adequate. It performs exactly as advertised, providing peace of mind and a professional finish to the electronic component installation.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters is focused on practicality and efficiency. The aluminum adapter plate is precisely shaped to interface with the mounting tabs of compatible Dinosaur ignitor boards, ensuring a snug fit. The clear small cover is designed to snap or slide into place with minimal effort, offering a protective shroud.
Ergonomically, the kit is excellent for its intended user – someone performing maintenance or an upgrade on their RV water heater. The components are lightweight and easy to handle in the often-cramped spaces where these water heaters are located. The simple, intuitive design means there’s virtually no learning curve, making it accessible even for those with limited experience in RV appliance repair.
Durability & Maintenance
This mounting kit is built for longevity, designed to withstand the operational environment of an RV water heater. The aluminum adapter plate is inherently resistant to rust and can tolerate moderate temperature fluctuations. The clear cover is also reasonably robust, capable of resisting impacts from small debris.
Maintenance is practically non-existent, which is a significant advantage for busy RV owners. Aside from occasional dusting or wiping, the kit requires no special attention. Dinosaur Electronics, Inc. has a reputation for producing reliable components, and this mounting kit aligns with that standard, suggesting a good service life under normal operating conditions.
Accessories and Customization Options
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters comes as a complete, self-contained unit for its specific mounting purpose. It includes the essential aluminum adapter plate, the protective clear small cover, and all the necessary mounting hardware.
There are no external customization options or accessories directly associated with this particular kit, as its design is highly specialized for mounting specific Dinosaur Electronics ignitor boards. It integrates directly with the electronic control board itself, which is sold separately. Its purpose is to facilitate that integration seamlessly.
Pros and Cons of DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters
Pros
- Eliminates Risk of Tank Punctures: The kit’s design prevents the need to drill into the water heater tank, a critical safety and functionality feature.
- Direct Compatibility: Specifically engineered for Atwood/Hydroflame water heaters and Dinosaur Electronics UIB S or UIB S Post ignitor boards.
- Durable Construction: Features an aluminum adapter plate and a robust clear cover for long-term use.
- Simple Installation: Comes with all required mounting hardware and is designed for a straightforward, tool-minimizing setup.
- Protects Ignitor Board: The included cover offers essential protection against dust and moisture.
Cons
- Ignitor Board Sold Separately: The kit itself does not include the electronic control board it is designed to mount.
- Limited Versatility: This kit is highly specific to certain water heater and ignitor board models, offering no universal application.
Who Should Buy DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters?
This mounting kit is ideal for RV owners, technicians, or DIY enthusiasts who are replacing or upgrading the control board on an Atwood or Hydroflame water heater with a Dinosaur Electronics UIB S or UIB S Post ignitor board. It is particularly suited for individuals who are concerned about accidental damage to their water heater tank or who prefer a clean, professional installation. Those who value ease of use and a component designed for a specific, critical function will find this kit invaluable.
Anyone looking for a universal mounting solution or a kit that includes the ignitor board itself should look elsewhere. This product is a niche solution, and its strength lies in its specialized application. A must-have accessory to complement this kit would naturally be the corresponding Dinosaur Electronics ignitor board it is designed to accommodate.
Conclusion on DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters
The DINOSAUR ELECTRONICS, INC. 2 TAB MOUNTING KIT Electronics Two Tab Mounting Kit For Atwood/Hydroflame Water Heaters is a testament to smart, problem-solving engineering. It effectively addresses a significant potential pain point in RV water heater maintenance by providing a secure and non-invasive mounting solution for critical electronic components. The combination of a sturdy aluminum adapter plate, a protective clear cover, and straightforward mounting hardware makes for an excellent user experience, particularly given the $43.99 price point.
This kit is highly recommended for anyone undertaking an ignitor board replacement on compatible Atwood/Hydroflame systems. It offers peace of mind, ease of installation, and a durable finish that justifies its cost. If you’re in the market for a Dinosaur Electronics ignitor board for your RV, this mounting kit is an essential, no-brainer addition to ensure a proper and safe installation.