On my 1992 300SE, the shift lever is pressed straight down and turned counterclockwise about 120 degrees and then it comes straight out. Be careful and do not get it "cocked", keep it very straight. The fitting it goes into (the yoke) is made of extremely cheap pot metal with a very poorly designed rim that holds the spring retaining washer in place and it will strip off. Don't ask me how I know. About $35-40.00 at the dealer.
Tim