I need to remove the cover on the gauges on a 2001

SOURCE: 2001 Ford Explorer Sport

Common problem on 2001 Ford Explores. The reason why your door handle doesn't unlock the door(can't be unlocked by remote either)is due to a broken spring located on the backside of the door handel INSIDE the door. True that your one(or two) of your small exterior springs on your door handle are broken(will cause your handle to flap) but this IS NOT YOUR PROBLEM. The door locks will work if there is a bit of tension holding the handle bracket up. I know it's hard to explain without pics. but here's the ONLY WAY TO FIX THIS. It's not that hard.......... Remove the door panel, only a few screws and a few more holding trim around exit handle then, pull out "snap in" clips on bottom. With a flashlight you'll see back side of door handle. To get to that area you'll have to remove one bolt holding a window frame. Do that(with window in up position) then slide down rail, out of your way. Now, get back to handle. With your light aimed at the backside of handle left slowly the door handle as normal, and you'll realize(while looking at the mechanism) that tension(pulling down of bracket) needs to occur in order for locks(manual and remote)to work properly. Trust me.....you'll figure it out. Once you do, get a spring(pen spring, 30 cent hardware store spring, any small spring!) and hook one end to bracket and the other end to ANYTHING(OUT OF THE WAY) below the door handle thus, causing SLIGHT tension. Try your locks...THEY WILL WORK! YEAH! Replace that one window frame bolt(try your window...just the make sure), replace door panel and your done. TOTAL COST: 30 cents or FREE(if you have a small spring) Ford dealers will charge $150 to $285! Yikes!

SOURCE: remove starter on a 2001 ford explorer sport

Gather the necessary tools needed such as wrenches, sockets, screwdriver and pliers.
Place the vehicle on ramps or jack up the front and support with jack stands. It is very important to block the rear wheels to keep the car stationary during this procedure. Never work under a vehicle not supported properly
Make sure ignition is OFF and the remove the negative (ground) battery cable from the battery.
Note the location of all wires before removal to make for easier connection.
Remove the large starter cable going to the battery at the starter location.
Remove any other wires attached to the solenoid.
Remove the starter attaching bolts (usually there are two or three).
Remove any supporting brackets that holds the starter.
Drop the starter down away from the car. On some cars you may have to turn the wheels to one side, remove the idler arm, remove or loosen transmission oil cooler lines, exhaust pipes, or ground straps to give you enough clearance to get the starter motor away from the car.
Install the new starter in the reverse order of removal.
Reconnect battery cables and other wires to solenoid.
Place old starter in the new starter box for proper core return.

SOURCE: How to remove rear hatch panel on 98 Ford Explorer?

you can get a repair guide at your local auto parts store

SOURCE: 2001 Ford Windstar Sport - odometer shows dashes and speedometer

Replace the gage cluster you should be able to find a cheap one on craigslist or ebay if not the salvage yard should have one.