I installed the gascolator primarily because I wanted to build my fuel system as close to Van's design as possible, figuring that it had a proven track record, and so many Experimental accidents are eventually pinned on "creative" fuel systems. I'm conservative, what can I say?
But...after flying a Grumman AA1 for 20+ years that didn't have one, and now having seen that it is hard to get anything out of the gascolator on my -8 without turning on the boost pump, I would be inclined to skip it the next time around. I am considering taking off my extension tube to eliminate a potential failure, and simply removing the gascolator bowl once or twice a year instead.
Those are just my thoughts - not saying they are are right for everybody!
Paul