Trying to get to the X30 connector to isolate a #15 fuse circuit with a short.

I got stuck on the last step of removing the foot rest under the e-brake pedal because I couldn't tell if the kick plate and foot rest were attached as they are in my 85 300D.

Can someone advise if I need to pull the drivers kick panel?

If so, are the only 2 screws to free it the truck release level bracket screws?

I've read that you pull toward the rear of the car, but I got to the point of forcing it so much I feared breaking the panel.

So, metal clip holding foot rest to firewall, 2 screws holding trunk release bracket. Anything else to loosen before I pull the kicker panel out?

Thank you,

Paul