i actually found one on digi-key that has a 18mm tall cut out, should be ALMOST right...it comes in green with a backlit lcd..
http://dkc3.digikey.com/pdf/T041/1254-1258.pdf
CDPM731-ND or CDPM733-ND
if it doesnt fit exactly i can always trim the clips a bit..the drill bit method is a good idea, since i dont have a dremel either.
ok so to make this work now, what do i need?
do i need these (this is what my friend is telling me):
+5V regulator
a 27k and a 3k resistor

1998 T-Red CSVT 3.0L