Corne,
I believe that your system has a minimal temperature making it a lot easier to analyze. For your case, the EJ is more likely used to isolate pump vibrations. Like John said, if you can leave the tie/control rods, leave it there... this won't hurt the pump.
If your boss insist on removing the tie/control rods because he doesn't like it, then, make sure you have a guide (up-down & lateral restraints)near the EJ which is between the fix support at the bend.
Goodluck!
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Flexy