1998 e300 td shifter question
 

I can move the shifter from P to R,N,D,4,3,2,1 without pushing the brake pedal, engine on or off doesn't matter. Is this normal???

No. The key is required to be in the ignition and brake pedal depressed. I just went out and confirmed in my car.

thank you , I probably have a bad switch or something.

No, there is a lock solenoid in the shifter assmebly, that is probably your problem. The signal comes from the brake light switch.

is it hard to get to that solenoid?

Why bother? You have a solenoid in your brain that will prevent shifting until your foot is on the brake or you're ready to go. Why spend the money on your E-300D if it's not necessary? It worked like that for decades before the safety nazis required the lock.