Thanks for tyhe comments guys, I actaully want a really neet acces pannel from a boat, very cool looking, it will be just the right size and is see though with some neet latches, going to be difficult to get it ordered since it is on a custom made boat.
If I cant go that route, it will be just a plain ole access plate. I think the clear palte idea wil be useless anyways with road grime.
I am going to try to use a blazer sending unit for the guage, for the guages I am restoring mine, getting the speedo recalibrated locally and using white overlays. I got some guage needles off a newer dodge that I will be trying to use as well for a custom touch, the are transparent/see though.
as for the convertable...only way to go in a desert!