I have removed a few. If you are doing a total restore, and taking the main dash out, it might be easier to leave the center in place, kinda. Plus like everything it depends. Are the gauges all in and the glove box in? I would unhook the oil gauge on the firewall and if you have a stock temp gauge take special care with that and soak the thermostat housing in your favorite loosener. To provide maximum help I would need pictures of the assembly. Oh and it will be enjoyable if you let it.
steve