I followed the directions and the inside panel came off ok. However, the outside handle did not come apart as it should. The locking rod would not come out the door latching mechanism. Being that I am too forceful and tend to break things at times I looked for a release of some sort did not find one. I put the door back together and retreat for more help and advice.

What I did see inside the door with the panel off is there are two connections to the latch, the lock engagement rod and the latch release lever.

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1990 420SEL
1995 E320 Coupe
2000 SL500
2009 ML320