[Grady Clay]

KSUGreggy,

What year and model?

Having ‘parted out’ a number of cars, I suspect you are familiar with the steering rack and cross-member.
Consider removing the front suspension from underneath (leaving the upper shocks attached).
You can disconnect one (either?) of the steering U-joint.

Be sure to paint mark the original shaft-to-joint position and lock the steering.
Don’t stress the brake hoses (or replace them).
Replace all the rubber fuel hoses. (Good opportunity to drain and rinse the fuel tank.)

While this is more work, I suspect it can leave the A/C undisturbed.

Best,
Grady