W126 Gas cap door lock
 

I've been having some trouble with the locking mechanisim on my 88' 300SEL. It typically doesn't unlock, and is very hard to pull open. It's not in the most convenient location to work on. I have looked at it with a mirror and it appears that it could be removed from the other plastic part that goes through from the outside of the car (inside the gas door), however I haven't been able to remove it yet.
Any idea how it could be removed for servicing without destroying it?

Thanks

Anyone.

Thanks

Maybe it's threaded on.
What do you think would happen if I give it a twist? :o

Check the locking pin in the gas door cavity. Mine was slightly bent once causeing the door to remain locked. I straightened and lubricated the pin and have not had a problem since.

Thanks for the tip.
I got it off so I could get a better look at it. Mine isn't bent it's just tight, and might be leaking a little.
I was going to take it apart but It's "clipped" together via the molded flanges of each part. Didn't look like I could get it apart without breaking it. So I tried lubicating it which seemed to help a little. I think the gasket/diaphram may be deteriorated causing it to bind.
I put it back on and it worked for a day then started back hanging in the locked possition. Oh well at least I know how to get it off now. it's not too expensive. element
It has a locking tab molded into the part where it attaches on the inside of the car. See the tab at the top of the picture. I found this tab with a mirror to start with and tried pushing on it, but just never pushed it up far enough to clear the step.
You have to push it towards the outside of the car and it helps to get your finger as close to the pin as possible so that the tab or clip bends straight outward instead of twisting.