Removing gauge cluster

I took the cluster out, painted the gauge faces with sunshine yellow paint (which happens to match the car), and also removed the 2 blue/green caps over the main 2 bulbs that illuminate everything, The caps did nothing but obstruct the light. With this combination I retain the stock bulbs but have more than enough light to see things very clearly.

 

That's how I do it and I have sasquatch hands.

 

Taking the speedometer cable loose at the tranny is definitely the way to go. From there it's just the 2 screws, lift over the lip on the dash, and disconnect the speedo from the rear of the cluster. I have fairly large hands as well and have no issues so long as I watch those sharper edges. lol

 

Is it possible to reach the bulbs to replace them with LED bulbs by going through the ashtray hole?

 

possible but watch out for sharp metal bits. Blood won't help.

 

Thanks!
Are the bulbs pretty much universal (like, available on Amazon) or are they a less common "Ford specific" bulb?

 

Very generic used in everything for years. I have a bin full of them so I am not sure what the part number is. do a quick search and you will find the info.

 

They are 194s, which are available at any auto parts store. You are going to need to remove the cluster. It's not difficult. The hardest part is reaching under there to disconnect the speedometer cable.