Hi KC, when I converted my van into a camper, I heard various stories about the ECU preventing engine start ect after removal (this was to replace the original bench seat with a single seat to permit walkthrough) and decided not to disconnect it, but left it in situ and strapped it up under the new single seat, worked great and I did about 60K miles in my new camper. I realize looking at your picture that may not be an option for you, but I would be inclined to err on the side of caution and would not unscrew, wack or axe it unless I was sure that I knew was likely to happen. Is it not possible to dismantle the seat belt mechanism from around it and then remove and discard the silver rocket without demolishing it? Good luck anyway - if it must be exploded get your neighbor to do it. G.