Are you really using an 8700 series model. I think you can delete it, and it will not break anything. On some models you cannot delete the BBM that comes installed, but can after it is upgraded. And there are (or can be) connected apps. But that is in recent times, not back in the day. Anyway, experiment. Try it.
Thanks aiharkness no using the bold :0) Gee i don't wanna try it. Had way too many things go wrong in this adventure since having it so don't wanna loose data etc