A similar position here...
When cleaning my 497 handset the ribbon to the display disintegrated and there's no replacement display available. A new handset costs €140... ouch.
Looked for open source solution and found onstep and it costs much less than a commercial solution. I can also repair when necessary and update when new attachments arise. I may even repurpose the 497 handset enclosure and build a hand controller for the onstep for all for less than $20.
I'm currently collecting all the information and trying to decide on which Micro to use, now I have another reference to make my life easier, thanks for sharing Fish...