Without damaging the transmitter, is it possible to remove the transmitter module and then play with the programming?

Also, in related question, I know it's not good for long term health of a RF transmitters to send the signal into an unmatched load. This would be the case when the transmitter is on, to experiment with programming for example, with the RF module installed and the transmitter collapsed. So, does this damage the 9CHPS?

Yes. If you remove the module, you can run the transmitter for programming as long as the battery pack holds out. You won't damage a thing.

If you want to change some programming and you don't remove the module, then have at least the largest section of the transmitter antenna extended.

Thanks Bax! Love the product...want to make it last.