Balky Hood Latch
 

1982 300SD (126) has a balky hood latch. Specifically the hood latch on the port side will not retain the catch. Starboard works fine. Cable run freely. I have cleaned / degreased thoroughly. Attempted to take port side out (3 screws) but the device did not come out freely, so retreated and thought I should first seek advice from the group. I have done several searches both on this site and via Google to no avail. Any ideas?
Thanks in advance.

Balky Hood Latch update
 

After 30+ views and no comments, I determined to search deeper in the archives using a wider variety of descriptive terms. Lo and behold, I believe I have uncovered a solution....Now to go and do some wrenching! My sincere appreciation to the community for your interest and support. Flawless

No more Balky Hood Latch
 

Woo Hoo! I love it when wrenching is accompanied by wisdom acquired from other peoples previous experiences! My hood now latches, and stays latched.

Unfortunately I discovered a bit of unexpected rust, and some broken attachment fittings on the headlight frame, but this economy needs some velocity!

Again, my appreciation to all for this collective wisdom.

Flawless