A forked plastic trim tool is ideal for pulling the needles, but be gentle. Be sure to rotate the needles fully counterclockwise until you feel the resting spot of the stepper motor, then put a small piece of blue painter's tape on the gauge face underneath the tip of the needle. Mark the needle position before removing the needles. That will be your reference point when you put the needles back on.
You can also use the painter's tape to protect the gauge face from any damage by the trim tool.
EDIT: in case you don't have it I've attached the pinout for the cluster connector. While you have it apart you can power A11, ground A12, and make sure your backlighting is working.