Shifter Cable Replacement

2002 DODGE DAKOTA

228,000 MILES • 4.7L • V8 • 2WD • AUTOMATIC

MRHEATHER

MEMBER
1 POST

We just replaced our shifter cable with a cable we got at a “pick and pull” it is shifting gears now when it wouldn’t before, however it is only shifting some of the time, every once in a while, it will stick and we have to wiggle it around for a while before it will get unstuck. We aren’t sure if this means we got another bad cable or if we did something wrong when we reinstalled it. Can you help?

Jan 6, 2022 at 6:09 PM

JACOBANDNICKOLAS

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
110,194 POSTS

Hi,

If the cable was bad, I feel you would have noticed it. It could be in need of adjustment, or something was left loose.

If you look at the pics below, they provide directions for removal and replacement. Take a look through them and see if there is anything you missed.

The last pic explains how to adjust it. When checking adjustment, make sure everything is tight and properly connected.

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.

Images (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
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Jan 6, 2022 at 9:40 PM

RCROCHET

MEMBER
1 POST

there is no adjustment caption says look at pics to see adjustment shows where to install but not how to adjust because you cant.

Jan 8, 2026 at 9:47 AM

STRAILER

✓ASE Certified Mechanic
54,832 POSTS

Yes, there is an adjustment tab at the top of the cable. It must be released and then snapped into place once the adjustment has been made. Check out the images (below). Let us know if you need anything else.

Image (Click to enlarge)

Professional Diagram for 2CarPros Members
Click here to log in and view diagram.

Jan 9, 2026 at 8:47 AM