I guess the best course is to take it apart and then review my options. While I have it apart I think I'll lubricate the gears and replace the needle. After 60 years that could be what's wrong with it. I won't get to it tomorrow...going fishing. Here are a couple of shots from my last trip to the Texas City Dike.
Texas city? Damn, Joe and I were in Galveston and Houston yesterday and today! We could've had a 'mini meet and greet!'
I was born and raised in Houston. I live is an adjacent bedroom city named Missouri City. I sure wish I could have met with you. So few Longroofs in the city. Safe travels
Back to the Speedo...it has opera lighting. I think painting the back plate white and the numbers black will work. (I'm still evaluating...)
Can you get your hands on another speedo, like a non-operable one, do it up? That way, you'll know if it works before you do it.
Looking up something else, I just ran into this eye-catcher Dodge Charger. These instruments don't look like El Cheapos and could be an alternative, if nothing else is found: https://www.hotrod.com/articles/1968-dodge-charger-2/?galleryImageId=50070
I came across this while looking for something else. They aren't cheap, but they are nice. Looks more finished than just sticking a bunch of AutoMeter gauges in your dash. https://www.dakotadigital.com/index.cfm/page/ptype=results/category_id=423/mode=cat/cat423.htm
Silver with black letters might also be an option https://rmsothebys.com/en/auctions/...1959-buick-invicta-estate-wagon-custom/920963
I don't know why I didn't think of this three years ago. I should have bought black face gauges to match the speedometer in the first place. So, I am having a "White Face Gauge Sale"!! Anyone interested in two year old gauges that fit the 60 Chevy can get mine for half price. I am gonna a new Black Face set. Get em while their HOT!!