Ok, I replaced the shifter bushings on my 190...
 

and it was even harder than all of you said! I changed the one on the shifter end (the other one was fine) and MAN is that bugger tough to get in.

I actually BOILED it in water trying to soften it up...to no avail. I used the bolt, nut and washer press...to no avail.

Of course, by now you know what I did. Yep, grabbed the dremel cutting tool and slit it down the side. Even then, it wasn't easy. It is in there tight, even with the cut. So, if it does come out, I'll just put another one in there.

QUESTION: The lack of play in the shifter ~ and no squeeking ~ is great. However, when I place it in park, unless I pull it over and make sure to hook it behind the little nub lip, it wants to spring over to the right. It won't slip down into N or R because the brake pedal isn't depressed.

Suggestions or comments on that problem?

I just replaced mine 2 days ago
 

Well, it's a little hard but not that hard as you presented it. What you needed to do is:
Turn your ignition into ON position.
Move selector to N position. If you tried to do it in the P position, you are just making it hard.
Pull hand brake and block wheel
Seperate the two levers apart (male from female)
Silicone spray the bushing
Using long needle noze pliers, squeeze one side in and then work the other side
Put the snap ring and you're done
It took me 20 minutes. 5 miutes to get it out from between the heat shield and catalytic converterarea everytime it flies.
Thanks,
Meza

Well, I didn't have LONG needle nose pliers. I assume you are meaning 10" - 12" inch long pliers. I can't imagine that there is enough room for those. Maybe I won't have to replace it again.

I did move it out of park for "ease" of reach.

Well! You got it done
 

And that's what matters. Some things take some patience and patience takes time.
Meza