Based on my experience with the stock valve on my '51, it might be better to NOT have the capillary tube. OK, so in the AZ deserts I don't need much heat but sometimes when I have the heater going and turn the temperature knob, I get no hot water, because the capillary tube tells the valve the ambient temperature is not cold enough. At least I think that is what happens. When it is really cold, the heater works great.
I purchased the same valve several months ago on Ebay, and when it came I noticed the return address was Jim Carter. Then I noticed the missing capillary tube, checked the ad and there was no mention but the picture clearly showed no tube present, so I am not sure I can claim false advertising. After mulling it over, I came to the conclusion to just install it (on my COE project), so I will have hot water on demand. It was $10 cheaper than another who advertises on Ebay, but they require a core. So there you go, your choice.
Kent
