Installing Hayward Skimmer on Intex pool without splitting gasket question

[mikepier]

I have a 14X42 Intex pool. I have seen people install the Hayward skimmer with splitting the gasket, and those who did not splitting the gasket.

This question is for those who have not split the gasket.

I am assuming people first marked the holes and opening in the liner, mounted the skimmer , then removed it, then started cutting the liner.
As the liner is getting cut, does it start to stretch at all with all the weight of the water? That is my only concern. Will the pool liner rip? And if it does not, how did you get the skimmer back on if the liner stretches and the holes possibly no longer line up?

Just trying to plan in advance.

 

[zea3]

Here is a good step by step install guide with pictures.
Adding a Hayward Thru-the-Wall Skimmer to Intex Metal Frame Pool (PICS!!

In this one he cuts the liner after the skimmer is installed, but it has been done the other way as well. Personally I would rather cut after the install.

You can find more links for intex modifications in the thread below
Useful links for fellow Intex Pool Owners

 

[jeffchap]

No, it's doesn't stretch at all. I only drained down to just an inch or two below the hole. There was very little strain on the liner at all.