James, you can get the instrument cluster out to upgrade, repair or replace the clock/gauges without completely removing the dash (fortunately). But you do have to loosen and pull it toward you enough to remove the cluster from the dash housing. That is one of the things covered in the photo journal I made when I converted my idiot light instrument cluster to a stock full gauge cluster. Here's the link: Full Gauge Cluster Upgrade
This is a great time to convert to LEDs if you are so inclined. That is also covered in the above photo journal.
If you go to the full gauge cluster, you get to keep your clock. If it is not working, it may be possible to repair it while you have the dash apart. I found three separate problems with my non-working clock but I was able to fix all of them and the clock is still running fine after three years. Here's a link to a photo journal on repairing the dash clock: Repairing a Dash Clock
Good luck.