How do I remove gauges/instruments in 408 and ammeter v voltmeter ?

[dwomby]

My 408 has an aftermarket temperature gauge that looks too different from the original, a non-functioning clock, and ammeter whose needle bounces all the time and the fuel gauge does not work (that could be either the wiring or sender - I haven't investigated yet).

Anyway, some of these gauges are going to have to come out for repair or replacement. So how do I do that? I see one of Stefano's 409 restoration photos shows the shroud around the instrument panel and steering column removed as one piece http://www.stefanopasini.it/images/B...Dismantled.jpg.

So do I have to take off the steering wheel to get access to the rear of the instruments? If I get that shroud off, can I change the gauges without removing the wooden instrument panel completely.

Also, does anybody have an opinion on mechanical versus electrical gauges for water temperature and on replacing the ammeter with a voltmeter?

thanks

David