I got a new rod from the dealer for under $2. The fact that they had it in stock surprised the parts guy. I'd have taken pictures but it's 95% a blind job. Stick your hand into the bowels of the door and hope there's nothing in there that will bite you. Fortunately it's not an American car so there are no sharp edges.

It's actually a rewarding task when I think about what the dealer would have charged to replace the rod. $2 part and what, $200 labor?

Thanks again to mr. Goodwrench and HPF.

Sixto
95 S420 ... with working driver door central lock
91 300SE
87 300SDL
83 300SD