I removed the upper heating element in my eletric hot water heater to check it for calcium deposets. Now I find it very hard to get it to line up please help bsibbs.

When you say.

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find it very hard to get it to line up

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what do you mean?
That you can't start the threads? To operate elements don't have to "line" up with anything. The fact that they are immersed in water is enough to ensure operation?
Why are you checking the elements for mineral build up? Don't you flush your heater on a regular basis? Do you need instructions on how to do so? Back to you, bTom

They sell tool for installing elements. Put element into the socket, insert it into the hole and turn it. Back to you. Milo