Yes EPS is a good option so far, more smoother than HPS, no load on engine, no fear of getting oil pipes leaked or oil pump damaged, mine is running on EPS as well. It will cost you around 14-15k for the whole EPS conversion and make it sure you get the EPS unit from a complete half cut cuz the ECU (im talking about the EPS unit ECU not the Engine ECU), Torque sensor and the Motor have some related codes and dont works if you put another ECU or torque sensor. These are the hassles which i've been through so be careful in that. But why you arent getting your bay painted this time? Such works requires a lot of hardwork, time and money so do it right now instead of getting all the engine apart and than reassembling, it will be a pain. And rest about AC, i wish you have an alternative daily driven cuz without AC a car is a disaster for sure