It's easy to pull off the shifter knob. First, remove the Firebird button, there is a slot in the side to help lift it off. Pull straight up.

Next, use retaining ring pliers to open up the retaining ring, and lift the ring off. Pull straight up on the woodgrain knob. Then you can remove the two screws for the shifter plate and change the light bulb and lubricate the shifter. You really don't need to remove the console to lubricate the shifter, just pack rags over the carpet and over the console. I use a silicone based lubricant as it seems to work for a long time before gumming up.