If you want to replace the climate control in the LX with the digital one from an EX, they have to be the from the same type of car I believe. For example, you can get a digital control from a 98-00 EX I-4 and put it in a an LX 98-00 I-4, but you can't get one from a 98-00 EX V6 and put it in. I think the wire harness is different. Good luck and let us know how you make out because I'm looking to replace mine as well.

As far as the leather goes, search the forum and you'll see jschmid car...he's replaced his seats with leather. I'd try to find one in a junkyard and rip out the entire interior.