Even as a very new newbie, I can only endorse the requirement to learn how to collimate, with a tool. Sooner or later you'll need to do it, if you transport it, you'll need to do it, if you clean the mirror, you'll need to do it - the picture is clear, one day, you'll need to do it. The sooner you learn, the sooner the fears are conquered!
As for the dust, dust for me enters through the sky pointed end when in use
. An unfortunate location of the dark nite site. Thus far I've not used the fan because night time temperatures don't vary a great deal, or very quickly, from day time temperatures
(for my location). However, as stated previously I do like the idea of the showercap on the earth pointed end, to prevent dust from below or unwanted creepy crawlies establishing a new home.
The scope and the lifestyle are great, and can only wish I started this earlier in life
.
Graeme