as a long term pro - he can do alot. He can;t get the system B4/after the cluster 'up 2 snuff' tho. I like ur idea of finally goin local. I predict success goin forward !!! Let us know how U do. I'm not too old to learn (wk ago 67th B'Day).
BTW: skip the speedometer shop (ur wrds) and go to regular mechanic / automobile electronic specialist. All autos are SYSTEMS, anything U do to 1 prt effects others. Hop up a carb & U may need to look to better breaks, suspension, etc. Have them go beyond the cluster, if Kevin has had his hands on it - its in good shape...