On my 123 you have to pull the interior door panel to remove the handle. There are 2 screws under the plug and one in the front of the handle. Only way to access this last one is to remove the door panel. Once all 3 screws are out it should just come out.

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1979 240D- 316K miles - VGT Turbo, Intercooler, Stick Shift, Many Other Mods - Daily Driver

1982 300SD - 232K miles - Wife's Daily Driver

1986 560SL - Wife's red speed machine