To answer the Q-2, some 8 yrs ago one Pantera owner in Norway replaced the entire mechanism including the cross-car headlight bar with Miata headlight parts. Porsche 914 mechanisms are similar. It would be easier if maybe more expensive to use an electric linear actuator to a lever replacing the sector gear and also do away with the motor & gearbox. Street rod guys use linear actuators to open heavy steel hoods & decklids. If you do this, post some photos.
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