underwater housing storage and maintenance

hi

I just got my hands on the wp-fxf50 housing for my camera, and have been going through the instructions and maintenance procedures. It mentions that if the case will not be used for a long time, that the o-ring should be removed. Can someone explain to me why this is the case, and how important this step is?

I am not really sure how often I will go diving or snorkelling (maybe a once a year type thing), and I guess it seems to be something I should get used to.

Also, when the case is not in use, and the o-ring is removed, where and how should I store the o-ring?

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dave

Pentax K200D
Fuji F50
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dtracorp/
http://dtracorp.com

--"o" rings go hard ,shrink and crack with age and UV . find out which grease suites it best and lube it and cover it up in a black cloth bag . The seals i use prefare synthectic grease , some are better off with vasiline cheers Paul UK
new to technology,always learning

...and keep the case unlatched when not in use. After using the case, especially in saltwater, I soak it in regular tap water and dry it with a towel.

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