I'd run rubber studs if I could. And I really think it depends on where you live if they should be mandatory or not. The entire province doesn't get the same weather.
I hope HB comes out with something like my buddies HDS12. I'm a HB guy, but that thing blows the Solix (Which is supposed to be it's competitor) out of the water. I'd love if they brought touchscreen to the Helix line.
Keep us in the loop Chris!!
Removing the lower end like you would when doing and impeller? I can't imagine there would be much besides the water pickup you'd have to disconnect (Besides the bolts that hold everything together)