How to remove (and how not to remove) the lower dash panel (aka lower vent panel, aka that trim panel behind the shifter). It's really hard to believe, but just pull it straight back. Everybody will tell you this, but you won't believe them. Hopefully this video shows you why it's true.
This is demonstrated on a 1989 VW Vanagon Automatic, complete with extra bird noises, because working on cars in nature is more fun.
Straight back!
Good luck!