Remove rubber coating from gas heater valve?

[tehjrow]

I ordered a new gas heater valve and it came with a rubber coating around the probe. Am I supposed to take this off? It seems like I am but it doesn't seem to want to come off easily so it makes me question it.

Images here: https://imgur.com/a/mLXgIcl

 

[Diehard]

I did some searching and found a couple of references that either say it should be left in place or shows it but doesn't say anything about removing it.
So I would conclude you do not remove it.
You could contact the manufacturer for further assurances.

 

[havasu]

My first reaction would be that sleeve would melt, causing damage. After seeing that above picture, I'm now not sure. I too agree to call the manufacturer.

 

[RenewDave]

It’s like a shrink wrap protective sleeve. If you take it off and have hard water, you’ll revisit the gas valve again in a few years.