I had to do the same repair on my 1998 C-class,
As I recall ( since I presently only have internet access at work, I can't refer to my Haynes manual) I had to remove the flat console panel that makes up the shifter and window switch wood panel along with the change tray. I don't recall what I removed concerning the verticle radio A/C wood oanel.

I'll chk my manual and if I get a chance over the next couple of days repost how and what I removed.

Now the tedious part of the job was getting the little gear back into place, took many tries until it fit back in, but if I did the repair you can do it.