Not sure there is any butchering up of the original. It will remain pretty much in tact and the look will be very close to original. I recommend to stay on the plan if possible.
A tach will serve no real purpose for this motor and truck. Especially when on a budget.
I would avoid a mechanical gauge on the plastic housing part of the cluster. I think the plastic housing could crack because of the stress from the heavy, stiff cable on a mechanical gauge. Use electrical only.


Right is right, even if everyone is against it, and wrong is wrong, even if everyone is for it. - William Penn