hi guys, new here, just purchased a 70, all in all close to show codition
except for dash. previous owner removed gauge cluster and original
bezel, has fabricated just a plate to hold aftermarket gauges.
terrible job, three screws hold in this plate, even screwed into dash pad. i want to redesign this as close to original with these gauges.
he has moved the headlight switch to just under steering wheel
wiper switch next to it. do i need the original cluster so original
bezel will screw into it, and can i use these gauges, autometer
nay help appreciated, why he butchered this is beyond me

 

Hard to say what you'll find behind the new cluster. If the wiring is butchered you might be better off keeping the gauges and building a new panel that holds them and fits better. If the wiring ehind is not too bad, then a original cluster could be purchased from various used or new repops and made to look better.
You didn't say what gauges you have in the panel now, or picture it, so it's hard to say if they will fit into a stock panel.