On modern HSIs, the mode annunciator is on the HSI screen. Having it on a remote annunciator panel is just a compromise solution for steam gauge HSIs.
Fortunately the requirement to force NAV mode when an ILS frequency is tuned has been removed. There are still many aircraft wired this way and I have flown a few. It is quite annoying not being able to preselect the ILS.
No ident would be the same problem. When using RNAV to get to the LOC, you should have everything set up long before you get there, including identifying the ILS.
If you don't plan on ever getting into modern avionics though, perhaps you should look into rewiring your system to the old way.