Two questions:

1. Is it really necessary to recover the refrigerant in order to replace the heater core on my 2010 Honda Ridgeline?
2. Do I really need to remove the ENTIRE dashboard to do this job?

I have the core on order from the dealer, so I'm researching the job before I get into it. I hope to do the work on Wed. (Jan. 30)

Thanks for the help.