Another "Can't Open Hood" Problem.
 

I realize this is a pretty common problem. I've tried reading some of the other threads on this site for ideas, but still no luck.
I have a 1985 W123 300D. In the inside of the car, there's just a cable sticking out near where the emergency brake is. As suggested, I have tried pulling on the cable with grips while someone else is in the front trying to open the hood. The other person is pulling out that plastic tab while I'm pulling on the cable, but it still won't budge. I can hear a click somewhere in the front when I pull the cable in and out, but it doesn't seem to make a difference. I thought that pulling the cable would make the plastic tab come out, but we still have to pull the tab out ourselves. I can even see behind the grill that pulling the tab causes a latch to move, but we still can't get the hood up.

Any ideas on what's going on?

The plastic tab is for the secondary release. It is useless if the primary latch mechanism is still engaged. (Sort of like trying to take off your socks with your shoes still on.)

You might try pushing up/down on the hood while simultaneously pulling the primary release cable. (Obviously a two-person job.)

Check out this thread if your hood still won't open.

http://www.schumanautomotive.com/forums/showthread.php?t=4737.

John

Got it open!!! :D
We were able to do some more aggressive hood bouncing this time while pulling the wire. The wire seemed to come out a little bit more than usual and the tab came out. I didn't realize it had to be a two-step process of making the tab come out, then pulling it. Thanks for clearing that up.

LOL

Lube the plunger on the primary latch and adjust the hood bumpers, also do NOT raise the hood with the plastic secondary lever. Pull it out then place your hand under the grille to lift the hood.