SS bolt inside of pool - not a problem, just make sure it's SS.
Cleaning the basket - I guess you don't have shutoff valves - a good thing to add, and not expensive. Do it this fall after you drop level for the winter, or you can do it now, but it means plugging skimmer and return really good to hold all the water back.
Yes, plug both ends, otherwise water will still come through.
Remove lid, clean basket, reinstall everything, might want to lube o ring on lid for good seal.
remove blockages to allow water back in, here's what I do, at this point, I unscrew the lid of the pump just a bit, the excess air will get pushed out of pump from the water pushing in. fasten lid down again, turn system on, within about 20 seconds all excess air will be purged out return valve and everything is running smooth again.
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