Following Colin Chapman's Advice...
 

As long as I am tuning-up my car this week (cleaning air filter, changing fuel filter, changing spark plugs, changing oil, cleaning throttle body, running fuel injector cleaner), I was thinking about removing the air conidtioning system as well, to free up some weight. I NEVER use it (it works, but is in need of a recharge) - whenever I drive and the weather's nice, I have all windows and sunroof open.

How much does the entire system weigh (in other words, is it worth it)?

How difficult would this be (in other words, am I okay if I am armed with just the Haynes manual)?

the front engine parts are easy - will take off around 50lbs

take the car to a shop first and have the system evacuated - shop should do it for free oif you let them keep the freon.

You will need the adaptor to relocate the alternator to where the AC compressor was.

don't bother trying to remove the evaporator - it is behind the dash and a PITA to get too.

AFJuvat