Servicing housing control orings?

[scubaalblake]

I have TG-1 in an Olympus PT53 housing. I like the setup cos even if it leaks - the camera inside is waterproof and will survive. I keep the main oring nice and clean and appropriately lubed and until recently have never had a leak over 3+ years.
But recently got leaks on dives. Double checked main oring and it seems fine, no nicks or dirt.
So I am wondering whether it could be one or more the control orings after that time?
Housing is always well washed but Ive stripped and serviced all my first stages twice in the same period (!) as part of general servicing so I'm sure those control orings need attention at some point.
Any thoughts? Should the control orings be replaced at regular intervals. The only info I can find anywhere (and I have searched) all relates to maintenance on the main door oring - nothing mentions controls.
Any tips? I'm quite happy to do it myself as I maintain all my own gear (ex Dive-shop tech) but just wanted to check if there are any 'gotchas' before I jump in.
Thanks.

 

[Furnari]

Once or twice a year I dribble a little bit of liquid silicone into or around every button, dial, etc. and press/spin to make sure the o-rings are lubricated. The link below has some good info on this, and you'll want to make sure whatever you use is compatible with your o-rings.
Underwater Camera Maintenance

That said, if you're already having problems it may be too late. Olympus does service their housings but since you're capable of doing you're own work I'm guessing it would make more sense to experiment with disassembly. Maybe buy a cheap used pt-xx housing off e-bay and start hacking? You might even find another PT53 that seals better.

Also- even if the main o-ring looks intact, it could still have enough deformation at depth to leak- replacing it is probably the cheapest thing to try, and would be a good idea in any case if you're still on the original.

Good luck, and let us know how it goes- if you end up disassembling the controls, I'll bet others could benefit from your experience.