Shifter light

[Phil]

Last week I posted a question about replacing the light under the shifter on my 1983 300SD. Jim H gave me some good advice. I got as far as removing the wood trim in the center consol. When i stick my hand under the shift indicator the entire underside is covered by a rubber boot, do I need to remove this or can I pull out the light trough this? Can any one tell me if there is a way to pull out the radio (original) with out the removal tools? Where can I get various small parts such as the gromets that go around the wiper shafts without going to the dealer?
It's always fun to just read all the postings, I always learn something new.
Thanks and Happy New Year.