I want to transplant a functioning odometer into my speedometer/odometer unit on my '59 Apache. From what I can tell, the only way to swap odometers is to remove the speedo needle and face plate first. Am I missing some easy work around or is this the only way?

I'm a little hesitant to remove the speedo needle, as I've heard the shaft they rotate on is extremely fragile. Also, I've heard that (assuming you can remove/replace the needle without breaking anything) it is difficult to get the needle back in the right position so you're speed is accurate.

So, if I want a functioning odometer, do I need to bite the bullet? Let me know if I'm on track. Thanks guys.