RE: Help with shiftgate removal..?
It's fairly easy to remove. You will have to remove the wood trim panel from the center console. Follow steps 1 & 2 here: http://mercedesml.info/mlswitch/index.html Then you should be able to access the clips on the side of the shifter assembly: http://mercedesml.info/touchshift/index.htm Specifically, see this photo: http://mercedesml.info/touchshift/08.jpg Note that on mine, I had removed the wood panel and replaced it an aluminum one that attached with two-sided tape, so there is nothing on my clips. In your case, there will be plastic "ears" on the bottom of the wood panel over these palstic tabs. Gently push inward on the tabs and gently pull outward on the waers untilt he panel lifts off. | 
