hi. sorry that I'm replying only now but i have been on a break for a couple of days now.
Got some pic to help you with your dilema because it can get a bit confusing with all the description, a pic says a thousand words.
This is a combination lock for a brief case. The lock is in closed/locked position
This is the lever that gets pressed into the body. Notice the "U" shaped bar on the bottom of the lever.
This is the body of the lock. This is where the "U" shaped section of the lever slots in.
This is the bottom view of the lock when it is in the closed position. This is where the bolt slots into the 'u' shaped part of the lever.
A thin flat screwdriver can be wedged in the position where the red tag is. The screwdriver must be wiggled so that the retaining pin or bar bends a bit upwards thus allowing the lever to open. Putting a bit of pressure on the lever also can help. The trick is not to use too much pressure or this will break the lock.
The bolt can then be straightened and the combo lock can be used again.
Hope this is of use to you. Good luck.