Rear window latch, 2000 S-10

Can't unlatch rear window on my 2000 S-10. I got into the slot in the tailgate as the book says and can manually move the latch(which also operates with the keyless entry remote) but it appears that something else is broken or disconnected.

I read in a forum that someone removed the plastic cover from the tailgate and was able to get at the latch. Does this cover snap in place and can I pop it off with the tailgate and window shut?

Thanks in advance for any help,

Dave