Automatic Shift Knob

Anyone know an easy way to get this sucker off? I need to replace the center console, but I dont want to tear up the shift knob doing it if I don't have to. I know there's a little "U" clamp or something on the front, but it's pretty deep in there. Thanks.

start you car, pull the shifter back into 1st gear, pull your e brake. take a pair of needle nose plyers
and you should have no problem