Immersion Heater Element Removal Advice Needed Drainage and wastage systems and plumbing help, advice and answers

[Chaleguy]

Hi. I've just purchased a property and need to replace the element in my immersion heater. I cannot budge the existing element and I think whoever fitted it may have used some sort of jointing compound on the thread. Is there something I can do to ease removal or am I looking at replacing the entire tank? I've tried tapping the element spanner with a mallet but won't budge. I'm worried I'll end up damaging the tank if I apply excessive force. Any tips would be gratefully received. Thanks.

[mileso]

yeah i had this on my old house if it should be able to remove it with an large adjustable spanner and a bar or hammer if not ilike i had to use a blow torch to warm it up a bit just dont go to mad it'll smoke and smell a bit from the compound but it was the only way i could get it free.
I tried all types of penetrating oil first it didn't move like wd40 etc but you might have better luck