think i may have cross threaded immersion element what can i do?

As the thread on your heater is brass and the cylinder is copper you have more than likely damaged the thread in the cylinder. You could buy an immersion heater blanking plug and try to clean the thread in the tank with it. It will be easier to "start" this in the thread than the heater. Also try and scrape out all traces of old sealant in the thread.

Terry Western
October 2010