2000 triton throttle control box screws stripped

[ncsubassfishing]

I noticed recently that my control box for shifting the motor in gear is very loose. The screws that hold it in place have stripped and I need to take them out and replace them with bigger screws. the problem is that there is a plastic case that covers them but is behind the throttle arm that moves in forward and reverse and I have no idea how to get behind it.

Anyone have any clues as to how I get that plastic cover off to get the screws out and replace them with new ones?

[Mike Cork]

I assume that shifting the gear lever forward or aft doesn't provide access. I can't quite visualize this. Can you provide a photo?