New Here. Old Man with Old Honda Rancher

Hi Everyone,
I am a 66 year old retired airline pilot, which means I am rather anal. Just ask my wife or my buddies. Anyway I just bought a 2004 TRX400FA from a neighbor. This is my first rodeo with an ATV. It only has 157 hours on it. It has brand new tires and just had a major service performed. Some of the plastic is scratched up enough to where I plan on replacing the L and R body panels, the gas tank panel and an upper front splash guard and front lower splash guard. Remember, I mentioned that I am rather anal I have ordered a set of push pin pliers from Amazon and I am just looking for some pointers. What is the best way to remove the shift gate rubber from the body panel and how do I remove the shift knob? Also, any issues with removing the gas tank cover? Any other tips would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance for your help.