89 Fuel/oil bezel wont budge! help!

[PDACPA]

I read the guage face swap out instructions as I needed to replace the glass on my 1989 911 Carrera Coupe's fuel/oil guage (it had a crack in it).

The instructions were perfect on removing the guage (found out I want new rubber trim). Then the instructions say to work a screw driver in between the guage housing and the bezel.

There is absolutely NO space two do this. I cannot even get a piece of paper in there. Supposedly it is a crimped edge. I have tried the thinnest of screw drivers and all I get is a scratched housing or mark on the bezel.

Does anyone know how to get these off??? They do not twist or budge with a screw driver placed there and being tapped. You cannot take it out from the back side as the housing is not completely open.

Thanks in advance!

[john walker's workshop]

put the gauge face down on a towel and get out your pocket knife. one way or another you have to get something into that crimp enough to create a space for a small pocket screwdriver to be inserted. then the screwdriver is pushed around the gauge, slightly uncrimping the bezel as you go. many times around and eventually there will be enough room to pop the bezel off on one side. work it off from there. patience. don't slip because your fingers will be in the way.

[PDACPA]

I will give it a try tonight when I get home John, but I have to tell you, it is on there tight! I even tapped a very thin bladed regular screw driver...and it just pushed the edge of the bezel down a little and did not slip between.

I was going to swap them out with aluminum, but based on this, I may scrap that cosmetic upgrade. I feel like I am bending the bezel or damaging it.

I will look for something real thin but sturdy enough to accept some taps.

Thanks