While my car is off the road, it is getting a bit of an overhaul, with any unnecessary crap being removed. (Punch in the head for anyone that says 'what about the driver'

Part of this, is that I want to remove the AC condensor unit that is behind the dash. (as it is the only part of the AC remaining in my car.) Has anyone done this before? I hear that it is a bit of a PITA. My interior will be coming almost completely to bits regardless, so it isnt a huge drama there.
How much of a PITA is it to get out, and what does it involve? I hear that it may not be possible to keep the heater?
There are many things that I can live without, but the heater in my car is not one of them.

Any comments appreciated.
EDIT: Perhaps what I'm talking about isnt the 'condensor', but generally the AC stuff that is behind the dash.