Dave,
Your solution was a clever one, however i you ever intend to return your piece to original here's a possible solution for you! There is a club called "Plasticvfille Collectors Association" that is a wonderful club. For members they have a free parts bin, and for non members there are listings of many parts at very nominal prices. They have a news letter 4 times a year filled with information about Plasticville and its history. I encourage every one to pay a visit to their site!
Paul