The trunk closes and locks, but the vacuum assist isn't working.

How do I get the trunk to close completely?
The "locked position" now is at the top of the vacuum pull down, so water may leak in the sides of the trunk lid.
1 - How do I get the trunk latch to "lower"?
2 - How do I get the trunk vacuum assist to stop assisting?

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Thanks for the help
Bill Fisher

'86 560SL (186K) - Now a 'classic' : Registered as an Historic Vehicle
02 E430 in the stable
'14 LS460 (Lexus)
- - - - -
'95 E420 (198K) found a new home
'99 E320 (80K) (gave it's life for me as we hit a bumper)
'95 E420 (231K) Sold to a happy buyer, new to Mercedes
'90 300E (65K) Sold to an Mercedes Lover
'92 190E (215K) - retired to the salvage yard
'93 500SEL (214K) - Moved to another family, still runs like a young pup