Id rather have the original sending unit AND an aftermarket sunpro/Stewart warner type gauge. A simple tee will allow you to have both. And yes new aftermarket parts are absolutely crap
As far as penetrating oil on the sending unit to get it out ive never had one break off. Ever. And I've changed many. That specialty socket does make the difference though.
That's what I did with mine. I hawked an NOS Chrysler sending unit on ebay and then put a tee off the pump and put a manual gauge under the hood. I still use the light in the dash too.