Drivers exterior door handle removal

This evening I attempted to remove the drivers exterior door handle on my TRD Sport with the technology package and the remote keyless entry. I was able to remove the lock assembly with no problem, but when I attempted to pull the handle back and out, it seemed to hang up on the wiring plug. I thought about just pushing the plug off with a screwdriver then wrestling the handle out, but was worried that I might not be able to plug the new handle in and get it back in the door. Does anyone know, can the drivers door handle on a keyless entry be switched out without pulling the interior door panel??

 

Why are taking the handle off ?

 

I'm swapping them out for the chrome ones from a Limited. Passengers side is done and looks great.

 

Very nice !

 

Does anyone have any experience with these?

 

I don't have any experience with them, but I'd just pull the door panel and disconnect whatever the obstruction is rather than risk damage.

 

Good call Clearwater Bill! Finally got back to it and the door panel definitely has to come off gain access to release the wiring from the back of the handle before it can be removed. Gen 3 door panel removal is quick and simple, almost exactly like a Gen 2....plenty of info available on that.