[vulcan300]

If you want to remove the needle without causing damage, you rotate it all the way until it stops, and then continue applying gentle twisting force until the needle turns on the shaft. As the needle turns, pull gently, and the needle will begin the come off of the shaft. Just continue to twist and pull until the needle comes off of the shaft.

With the needle removed you can then remove the face, which will make the repair of the odometer gear a lot easier.

J