[mike sampsel]

Pictures might help, I do not recall difficulty removing the oil filter with the A/C compressor in place. My A/C has since been moved to the front of my car so I can't do a picture. Lots of us have moved the compressor onto the fender to perform various tasks, such as spark plug change and valve adjust, I've never done this for oil filter removal. It's not so hard to move it out and up on the fender a "couple" of bolts hold the mounting plate on. But I do not think you need to to get the filter off.