Removing fields without changing time stamp of unchanged files

In such a case I suggest to have a look at the action called
"Remove fields except"
There you can define which tags you want to keep (and therefore delete all other, however they are called).

If you want to keep your embedded cover art, don't forget to include PICTURE in your list of tags to keep.

Please test such a new action with some of your files to be absolutely sure that you keep ALL your tags wanted. A backup of your data is always recommended.