Early A body Fuel Gauge Instrument Cluster Question.

No sir. If you pick that slither of metal from under the bent tangs, the board will be loose. Simply cover it with a layer or 2 of electric tape.
So, I am confused about your quote "Since the heat is no longer an issue, A similar pal nut or common 10-32 hex nut with washer, like those on your amp gauge, will replace that strange clip too."