Shifter Cables, Linkage, And Installation Components

A high quality cable installed properly provides smooth and firm shifting. This improves the driving experience and ensures proper gear engagement, which would otherwise cause damage to the transmission.

An aftermarket universal shifter cable provides a way to use a high performance racing shifter in place of the factory version. The design incorporates threaded adjustability to fit a wide variety of applications. This allows you to customize your interior as well as provide an upgrade that is suitable for racing.

A shifter cable is an automotive component, constructed from an outer housing and a steel inner wire, that connects the shifter to the transmission gear selector shaft. When the driver moves the shifter, the wire inside the cable travels, pulling or pushing the transmission gear selector shaft to the desired gear.

The automatic transmission shift cable is located between the transmission and the shifter. It can be found by removing the shifter console (if equipped) between the driver and passenger seat and following the shift lever to the cable connection. Most shifter cable products connect to the transmission on the side. Find the transmission and inspect the side of it for the gear selector lever and cable connection.

A shifter cable on a car or truck can be replaced by first gaining access to the shifter cable connection on the shifter. This involves removing the shifter console cover (if equipped). The connection style can vary, whether with a cotter pin, a bolt, or quick release fitting. Disconnect the fitting from the shifter assembly. Next, remove any cable housing hold-downs and fish the linkage cable through the floor enough that will allow complete removal of the cable from underneath. Next, safely raise the vehicle from the ground, enough to gain access to the cable connection at the transmission. Then disconnect the shift linkage cable from the gear selector shaft and gently pull the rest of the cable from the vehicle floor opening. The steps to replace the cable are in the reverse of the removal. If the cable set is adjustable, the shifter will need to be synchronized to the transmission gear selector so that both go into the gear position at the same time. This is done by trial-and-error, adjusting the connectors at either end of the cable.

Depending on the gear shift linkage cable style and type, as well as the fitting design on each end, the steps to tighten the cable can vary, and in some cases, it may not be adjustable without permanent modification. Most aftermarket shifter cables have a threaded end to allow simple adjustment. However, some have a crimped connector, which has no ability for adjustment. This will require modification and a different connector to be used in order to tighten the cable.

When it becomes difficult to shift your transmission and a shifter cable replacement is needed, or a new shifter is being installed, purchase a high-quality shift cable from JEGS. Aftermarket shift cables are built with strong materials and high quality assembly to provide smooth shifting performance for a long time. Browse our online automatic and manual shifter cable selection today!