Multiple installs are not that difficult to do. The first thing I did when I patched to SH4 1.4 was to copy and paste to Clean SH41-4 Folder I renamed in Program Files. I don't touch this install, it is for quick access to a clean set of files, comparing files, etc.
Now the same can be done with other installs, copy the
Main Silent Hunter Folder and paste it into your newly named
RFB Folder ( under Programs ). Add in JSGME so you can install mods, etc to that install. Mine are Career, Test, etc....
Also, there is a great little app. called
Multi SH4, this will allow you to have separate save folders in My Documents, without using this app, your install saves will be difficult to keep track of. Do a search for this and you will find it.
I run Trigger, ROW, some sub skins, along with some of the radio mods. There is some other stuff as well, but those are the main ones. There is really no right or wrong, it is more due to personal preference.
There are many
great mods with SH4, check out the 1.4 Compatible Thread, this is a nice site as well:
http://www.downbelow.net/
RDP