1994 Door Lock Issues - Driver's Side Front & Rear

First post, I've searched but not found existing posts for these issues. I've found close descriptions, but not exact, if I've missed some, please identify. Thanks

Both problems on the driver's side doors

Rear Door - outside handle does not open the door. Inside door handle functions properly. Lock functions correctly from the master lock switch on driver's door panel. I have removed the inside door panel (using tips from other posts here and elsewhere) that was fairly easy - three screws, pop the fasteners, push the inside handle forward and work through the hole on the panel. Now I have taken off the cap screw that fastens a black plastic piece that attaches to the window guide rail - but I can't seem to remove it. The plastic piece obscures the view of the inside of the outer door latch. I can reach up outside of the black piece and feel the rod, but without seeing it I cannot re-attach it or identify any broken parts. It feels as though it is free of the door handle, but connected to the locking mechanism. How do I remove the black piece? And then what?

Front Door - door lock does not operate from the master door lock switches on either front door, it does function manually, if operated in a specific sequence. I found the sequence through trial and error. I recall precisely when this failed. I was in a hurry and had the inside handle in the open position and simultaneously hit the lock button. I typically reach across my body with my right hand to operate the door, once opened release it, then with my left hand hit the lock button. But I has in a rush and hadn't completely released the door handle before hitting the lock button.
I have a work around, with the driver's door open, I use the master door lock button to lock the other three doors, then manually press down on the lock tab on the door. At this point, the inside door handle will not release the door latch. I have to roll the window down, reach out and lift the outer door handle, it clicks when lifted, and the inside door opener functions again. Using the key from the outside to open the driver door lock functions as expected; including electrically unlocking the other doors.
Similar to the rear door, I have the inside panel removed and have access to the internal door components. There is a long narrow white plastic extension on the manual lock tab on the door, I think that might have something to do with the failure.

I appreciate any suggestions or pointers to existing posts that may be of help. It seems the search feature does not filter on Gen2, when I searched for door lock, I received many hits across all generation forums. Also, there are quite a few non-Gen2 YouTube videos for door maintenance, but I haven't found Gen2 videos.

Thanks!

1994 SR5 3.0L-V6 2WD Automatic Transmission

 

Sounds to me like the electric motor or the wiring for the door lock on the front door is toast. Since it won't go up with the buttons but will with the key (which controls it mechanically iirc) that most likely the issue.

Back door probably just has a broken clip or part of the handle. Not uncommon, they are 30+ years old. Never taken apart a back door myself so not sure how to get that piece you described out of the way