I don't mind using my hour/date on battery changes, but I would mind if the battery leaks. Is the hour and date backup the only function of the battery? If so, how easy is it to just remove the battery?

Then again, if I remove the battery I might just as well solder in that capacitor. No soldering experience, though. What soldering equipment would I need to at least remove the battery?

And thanks for providing this information and the capacitors!