BMW: I stripped the front passenger..., bmw 328i, vertical metal

Question
I stripped the front passenger door down on my 96 BMW 328i in order to replace a failed door lock actuator.

I foolishly (in retrospect) loosely screwed the lock assembly back in place and carefully shut the door for security while I went to get the part. The connecting rod for the interior door handle was in place, and the pop up spindle seemed to pop up and down ok. To my horror, now I cannot open the door. The pop up pops up and down, and the lock pull rod pulls the lock but does not release the latch in the actual lock. This is a bad result. I have heard stories of having to cut the outer door panel to solve this problem. A simple job is becoming a nightmare. Is there any other possibility?

Thanks

(PS I don't mind if this is posted, I couldn't see a check box to post it)


Answer
i need more information... what happens when you are in the car and use the black handle to open the door...does the lock release? if not sounds to me like the vertical metal bar (which has "teeth" on it) is stripped and your pulling the handle to open in vain... this can be replaced, no cutting needed. please send me more info. and or pictures... redline4jc@yahoo.com