How to get by with a bad shift linkage cable. Options

[Metal_Rain]

The outer cable wrap on one of my shift linkages recently frayed and untwisted. This allows the core cable to "bulge" out from its intended route when I'm trying to shift. 2nd, 4th, and reverse were disabled. I ordered a new set of cables from one of the forum members and will replace them when I get them, but what to do in the meantime? It's really a bitch trying to operate a car without reverse, and the lack of 2nd and 4th gears is a pain as well. My trusty ol' dad offered a solution and it worked quite well, so I thought I'd share it with you guys.


Materials:

garden hose
hose clamps

Tools:

nut driver/screwdriver
knife
measuring tape


First, locate the area where the outer cable is frayed. Measure the distance of the frayed section. In my case, it was roughly 6 inches. Cut this length of garden hose. Now slice open one side of the hose lengthwise.

Fit the piece of hose over the frayed section of the cable. Place a hose clamp on each end, and place another clamp every 2 inches in between. Tighten the clamps on each end enough to keep the hose from ever moving, and tighten the middle clamps enough to compress the hose for a snug fit. That's it! You should now be able to shift and drive with ease! This will get you by until you can find a new set of cables.

Wish I could post some pictures, but my camera is full of sand

[barterj]

This is such a genius idea that i have book marked it in case someone i know has a similar problem

[zeus83]

mind me asking, from where r u getting ur shift cables? wats the cost like?

Thanx a ton