Speedometer needle removal and gauge restoration question

[Rickster]

Need some advice on speedometer needle removal first.

Removed standard gauge set from dash and planned on ordering new decal set. Understand the importance of removing needles to afix decal but speedometer needle is proving to be a bear! Have read where holding round plate on back and using a fork to evenly lift needle base has worked for some. After using moderate pressure, still won't budge. Twisted and lifted by hand but that didn't work either. Have read a post some years back where a dremel was used to cut off needle and re-bond new one? Any other ideas?

Don't know working condition of any of  gauges as car (71 Challenger) was not running when purchased. Would consider sending entire unit off for clean/restoration/recalibration but not sure want to go that route yet. Did see a company advertise a $50 basic clean/restore - classychassisrestoration. Any feedback on them?

Thanks for any help offered.

[MEK-Dangerfield]

I can't offer much help to you, but from others, I know removing the needles isn't easy.

How bad do your gauges look? Another option is E-Bay. Maybe you can find a set that looks better than your's.

Here's an example in doing a search for "standard gauge mopar".

    http://www.ebay.com/itm/Original-1970-4-Barracuda-Cuda-1971-4-Challenger-Standard-Gauge-Assembly-Mopar-/290712729028?hash=item43afd435c4&item=290712729028&pt=Vintage_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&vxp=mtr 

[Rickster]

Thanks, Mike.

 I had not considered that option figuring the price would be considerably higher for that piece. Mine is in about same condition as one listed except speedomenter is showing a good bit of surface rust.

Will check it out to see if that one is working.

[MEK-Dangerfield]

Thanks, Mike.

 I had not considered that option figuring the price would be considerably higher for that piece. Mine is in about same condition as one listed except speedomenter is showing a good bit of surface rust.

Will check it out to see if that one is working.

Seriously, put the guy on the spot and ask if all the gauges work. I would find it hard to believe he would go to the trouble of restoring dead gauges.