as for your first issue. you can switch the controls to a non a/c unit if you wish. i don't think you'd have a problem with anything as far as conversion wise. as for removing the heater housing you kinda have to remove the fender if you don't want to damage anything. some here have cut access hole into the inner fender and install a backing lip behind the cut out panel and re-installed the cut out. as for removal, if you don't want to remove the fender and the kids like to wrench on the car with you set them in the engine bay with a 1/4" rachet set and point to the bolt you need them to take off. its easier for them to reach in their than for you to stick your klods in there getting them caught in the process!