I need to rip apart the instrument cluster to replace light bulbs. how do i do this? the safe and easy way?

i also heard that once u get it out of the dash that the air bag may go off? how do i avoid this!

and if i were to unplug the electrical wires to the gauges for some other repairs, and i plug them back in, will the gauges still work the same?

I have a thread wrote up for the N-bodies that might help you out(since you maliby is an N body).
Disassembly of N-body interior (http://www.automotiveforums.com/vbulletin/showthread.php?t=625171)

To avoid air bag deployment pull the air bag fuse, but disconnect the battery first.

As long as you dont move the needles when the clusters removed they will return to normal operations.

If you need further assistance just ask!