No problem with questions; I'll help as much as I can.

Yes, if you're in NH then you should be able to get the pump locally. BTW, I north of you in Ontario.

I've had the pump in that location for a while and I'm sure it has cooked on occasion but I've not yet had a problem. The pump does get a 'reasonable' amount of air flow around it in that location (except when you're not moving )

I didn't replace my screws and I'm now kicking myself as I realized after I mounted it that it will be difficult to remove them if the pump goes.

I don't know how long they last. I've only heard of one being replaced; I believe it was Gram (not sure).

"the pump you installed is half the size of the one in the article" Unsure to what you are refering. I did install the small one and that's the one in the Tech Tips. I think the larger one should be used if the vacuum line from the pump to the manifold is 'long' (don't ask me how long ) as the vacuum pulse weakens as the line increases.

The pump's not expensive .... Heeters wants $25 USD. Much less than the stock one.

I don't know if you can drill the manifold with it on the bike as the backbone may be in the way. The rags and vasaline would definitely work if you can reach the top of the manifold. Probably vacuuming the outside as you're drilling would also help.

Doc