1993 Civic CX hatch. Has dealer installed A/C.

My heater core has started to leak, and I bought a new one. I'm now in the process of removing the old one to change them out.

Any quick and easy tips on doing this?

I have a Chiltons manual, and it says to remove the dash and also the entire heater box, meaning I will have to discharge my A/C to do it.

On the other hand, I have a Haynes manual that says that all I have to do is drop the steering column, remove the climate control unit, and take 4 screws out and femove the entire box that way.

I, however, think that it would be possible to remove the SRS control unit (already disconnected the airbag proplerly) and simply take the little door off the bottom of the heater box and pull the core out. (I know I have to disconnect hoses and stuff in the engine bay)

So, anyone done tis before and care to share some tips?