I have a problem with my Ruud LP heater. The gas valve is model VR8440M2024. Does anyone know what the M2024 means? I have found VR8440 valves on line but don't know if they will work with my unit. Also, any info about changing from nat gas to LP? Thanx, Ron

Call Rheem
Generally the company does not support changing type of gas since propane burns much hotter and has more pressure than natural gas.
You need different gas control valve, and need cast iron burner and orifice than matches that specific gas control valve.
http://waterheatertimer.org/images/IMG_1826-LP-burner-450.jpg
http://waterheatertimer.org/Water-heater-manufacturers.html

Gene

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

Check for 24vlots at gas valve. if you have 24volt there while the ignitor is on and still fire that mean you need a new gas regulator

1) Copy following link to troubleshoot by type of gas control valve:
http://waterheatertimer.org/How-to-troubleshoot-gas-water-heater.html#intellivent

2) Otherwise Rheem-Ruud does not post service manuals
http://www.ruud.com/products/tank_water_heaters/gas_water_heaters/

3) Sound like bad gas control valve thermostat.
Newer Honeywell electronic controls can be replaced without draining tank.
Older mechanical controls are replaced by removal from tank after tank is drained.

If you need further help, I’m available over the phone at https://www.6ya.com/expert/gene_9f0ef4df2f9897e7

Dont know if you can get orvices for that heater but almost all gas appliances can be converted for nat to lp and lp to nat,they made a spud kit which is a blank orvice that you drill out your nat gas orvice to I think a 20 drill side and install the spud in and redrill to size usally a nat-gas orvice is around 8 to 10 sizes larger then a lp.The big thing is the gas valve and if it has a built in regulator or not,some valves can be conferted to open up the regulator pressure by the spring or a block off kit and others are fixed and cant be changed,have to replace valve.most nat-gas are at 3" to7" and lp is at 10".Hope this helps you

there are no instructions for doing this.

how do you know it needs replacing? its rare that they need to be replaced.

I can help you, but need to know what is going on with the unit first

11 The Gas Shutoff Valve is not opened
completely.

12 Gas Service has been interrupted.
LP Gas is running low. (LP models only)

I think C7 is where the startup sequence ended...and then you get the error code

If less than a month old...contact your customer support

Hi you will need a gas fitter to do this and set it up

turn off LP tank valve. let sit for 5-10 minutes, then slowly open LP tank valve. opening the valve too quickly cause a ck valve to close. It's a safty in the event of excessive gas escape like a damaged regulator or hose. just barely crack it open and let the system balance. do not open suddenly.
Good Luck

Based on your description I would guess that there is a "leak" somewhere between the gas valve and the actual fire. Use soap bubbles to check the connections at the gas valve. Also check the gaskets in the Gas valve the same way. Lastly there may be a cracked or misaligned burner causing the "leak". Best of Luck!