Can I just rip out my AC System?

[RichardJ]

>>Also the A/C hoses go to a trans cooler looking thing in front of the radiator.<<

That thing is probably the AC Condenser.

If you have the old style, Tube & Fin Condenser, you will get better results with the R134 if you replace it with a parallel flow condenser. A couple of bucks there.

>>replace the dryer and the hoses with the new crimped style hoses...<< A couple of bucks here.

Some Flush, which I think is over priced. More $$

R12 isn't cheap and getting harder to find. If you add a couple of cans and it doesn't work, then do you decide to keep going in that direction and keep throwing money down that hole?

Can you return the heater fan and fan motor you just bought?

Your control cables are bad. Vintage air doesn't use them. You get a new fan motor. Pre-crimped ready to go barrier hoses. Parallel flow condenser. You wouldn't need that new heater core you just bought.
Do the math.

Do you now have gauges and vacuum pump?
Ask the guys that wouldn't charge with R12, what they want to evacuate and charge a new Vintage Air System. Call and ask Vintage Air (Texas) who they recommend in your area.

I am not recommending Vintage Air just using them as an example. Their Sure-Fit kit is $1400 +tax, but includes things you have bought and up dated things you have yet to get.

Getting rid of an under dash unit, in my book, calls for any alternative solution.