I agree, just replace the whole lot, easy job,and cheap. also try and do the 'p' gasket while your there too, bit more fiddly but relativley straight forward.
Oh ok, I understand, makes sense now. Do you need the money? if not, I wouldnt stress about it, wait till you come back, put a cover over it etc, work on it when you get back, give you something to do :) It wont do much harm leaving it standing mate
Sorted the boot door lock on the disco, then decided to take the speakers out of the door, as they sound ****e now, and well passed it. Going to mount a drop down shelf on it, for the old camping stove :)