Looks like good but one question
Did both inside and outside unlock and or open stop working at the same time
If not the moral is do not lock door if part of mechanism has stopped working
Does happen to some after installing new outside handle and closing door without first testing adjustment (best done without inner panel installed
People have removed inner panel with door closed but is a real chore
Another option is cut latch look loop with sawall just doable with door closed but you have to buy a new loop
Your solution sounds better still
Did both inside and outside unlock and or open stop working at the same time
If not the moral is do not lock door if part of mechanism has stopped working
Does happen to some after installing new outside handle and closing door without first testing adjustment (best done without inner panel installed
People have removed inner panel with door closed but is a real chore
Another option is cut latch look loop with sawall just doable with door closed but you have to buy a new loop
Your solution sounds better still