trueblu - Yes you can get to the starter switch. The control does not really hang down that far. And you can get the tank up (just barely if the tank is ALL the way back).
As far a weather proof, the control is not water proof at all as it comes in the kit. You need to seal it with silicone goop. And don't forget to seal the front (take the unit apart and silicone the rubber switch mat to the front so water can't get in around the switches) as well as the back (where the wires are) and the seams. But it can't be the normal home depot stuff. You have to use stuff that doesn't have the acetic acid (vinegar) in it, or it will eat up the electronics in the control. I used Dow 832 from
McMaster-Carr Mine has survived rain just fine after sealing it up.
]Monty[