AC compressor clutch bearing

My 99 Silverado (w/5.3) ac compressor needs a new bearing installed in the clutch and from what I hear the compressor will have to come out to do it;my question being is there any way possible to do the bearing swap without breaking the lines apart from the unit?I understand that there is a measure of oil in the compressor and I'd like to take the necessary precautions to keep it from coming out,or perhaps with the age and milage (214000 kms-128000 mls)mabey it should be changed anyway?I plan on doing the work myself and am not mechanically inept but this will be the first time working on ac.I can get it recharged with the correct refridgerant no problem so if it absolutely has to I will take the unit off to do the work.
BTW can someone tell me the bearing number so I can have one on hand to put back in at the same time?

Leave the hoses/lines hooked up.
If a top mounted compressor unmount it and stick it up in the air.
You will need puller and installer tools for it.
Some local parts places loan or rent tools for the job if you get parts there.
If a lower mounted compressor remove fan shroud or fan to get to the front clutch and bearing.