My shifter cables need replacement. The shifts into 2nd, 4th, and reverse are not engaging as the sleeve has broken on the "front/back" cable. From all of the information I could find; everyone states to put the car into 4th gear for the F35 transmission when putting in short shifters and adjusting cables. Since I am unable to do this by normal means should I try to engage 4th gear by moving the arm on the transmission by hand? Or should I install the cables with the car in neutral and once installed try to get the car into 4th gear and then adjust the cables at that time?

 

Before you buy a new cable, did you confirm the cable is broken not just the sleeve (although I would recommend replacing if the protective sleeve is broken). The arm on the transmission has a roll pin that is known to break and cause those exact symptoms.

The reason for putting it in 4th for the short shifter is for adjusting the cable clamps, you'll be fine starting in neutral or 3rd and then finding 4th. Be sure to confirm the reverse lockout still works before you replace all the trim, not just that it allows you to select reverse, verify it prevents you from putting it into reverse without lifting up on the lockout.

 

Here is a frame from the video. Also the car does have a twm short shift kit. Which is why I ask about 4th gear.

 

If you can reach in and move the arm by hand and see if you feel it click, while the wire looks like it needs replaced I would verify you don't need to do a roll pin replacement as well.

 

I was able to engage 4th gear by hand.