If it is just the gauge, then the dash is quite easy to pull appart and re assemble. You should pick up a gauge for less than a tenner from a scrappy. Just rememper, when you put the dash back together, there will be 3 or 4 bolts left over and an anoying squeeking noise that you will never find out where it is comming from.
Every escort I have been in that has had the dash removed has this sqeek. :toung: