How do I get access to my retracting cord on my Sears canister vacuum clean?

I have a model 116.2645083 Sears canister vacuum cleaner. The cord is jammed. Under panel that houses the push pedal to retract the cord, I can see just two tabs on the SIDE of that housing that pull out. HOWEVER, this if as FAR as I can go.

What other steps do I need to take to take apart this housing in order to straighten out the jammed cord?