S13 DOHC gauge cluster problem has me stumped

[zooopreme]

Hello everybody, so I've got a seemingly small problem that I am dealing with and after doing research and applying those methods, I'm frustrated because I'm still where I started.

To get you folks on track:

• S13 is DOHC and it had a perfectly functioning DOHC gauge cluster
• Removed DOHC cluster for modification and drove around without a gauge cluster
• Bought SOHC cluster for spare parts
• Removed gauge needles off both DOHC and SOHC gauge cluster (pulled the metal needles off too)--did not document the last position*
• Put new painted needles in, plugged the harness back in, speedo read 15 mph at full stop, RPM not responsive, fuel and temp exceeded F (Full) and H (Hot).
• Removed needles to calibrate and went to gas up
• Put needles at: F (Full), midway point for temp, 750 RPM for idle, and 0 for speedometer. After driving, no response from any needles and temp and RPM gauge do not return to return position.
• However, when the gauge cluster is plugged in: odometer still spins, gauge cluster lights work, AC and AC lights works, hazards/turn signals work, door chime still working, etc.

*real stupid move on my part

So yeah, nothing is moving at the moment except my RPM needle moves very slowly when applying and letting off gas--I revved the engine to a high RPM and the needle moved like a turtle.

Any ideas? Is the mechanism stuck or broken? How can I find the original or stock positions?