How to replace the shifter cable?

Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 1999 FORD F-150
  • 4.6L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 257,000 MILES
Hello guys, needing step by step instructions for removing and replacing shifter cable. Could you please also include illustrations. Your help would be greatly appreciated. Please and thank you.
Tuesday, May 27th, 2025 AT 7:54 PM

13 Replies

Tiny
JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • MECHANIC
  • 110,176 POSTS
Hi,

If you look below, I attached the directions and pics relevant to replacing the cable. When you do this, you may have to fight rust or corrosion, so hang in there.

Take a look through the directions and let us know if they help or if you have additional questions.

Take care,

Joe

See pics below.
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Tuesday, May 27th, 2025 AT 8:42 PM
Tiny
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  • 7 POSTS
Thanks for the info. What tools will I need? This was my brother's truck when he passed it went to me (his sister). I'm learning as I go. Will let you know how it goes.
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Wednesday, May 28th, 2025 AT 12:34 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Sounds good, I would go to amazon or harbor fright and get the basic tool kit, you will need them the rest of your life. Everyone should have this.
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Friday, May 30th, 2025 AT 9:58 AM
Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
  • 1999 FORD F-150
  • 4.6L
  • V8
  • 4WD
  • AUTOMATIC
  • 257,000 MILES
Hey guys, I forgot to ask previously when you sent me information on how to remove and replace the cable. Probably a stupid question. What tools are required for removing and replacing the cable?
This was my brother's truck and when he passed it went to me (his sister). I'm learning as I go.
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Friday, May 30th, 2025 AT 10:48 AM (Merged)
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
I would go to amazon or harbor fright and get the basic tool kit, you will need them the rest of your life. Everyone should have this.
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Friday, May 30th, 2025 AT 10:49 AM
Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
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  • 7 POSTS
Thanks Ken, I actually have just about every tool I possibly would need. My brother was a Master tech like you. I should have been more specific with my question. Thank you for your help.
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Friday, May 30th, 2025 AT 1:01 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Nice truck you got there :)
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Saturday, May 31st, 2025 AT 9:49 AM
Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
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  • 7 POSTS
Thank you Ken, it is in really nice condition for 26 years old and the engine (Triton) is still hanging in there.
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Saturday, May 31st, 2025 AT 7:38 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Yep, if you change the oil those engines last a long time. People complain about them; at the same time, they don't change the oil. We did a rebuild on a 5.4 3 valve and it was in great condition after 190k. Here is the video series if you want to check it out:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QuNLrE3rrb8&list=PLe3kz1i_LrtW1Jw7wWI-3jSsaml8EjQVb

Please let us know what happens.
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Sunday, June 1st, 2025 AT 9:59 AM
Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
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  • 7 POSTS
Yep, you are so on point about keeping the oil changed. I'm really hoping for this one to reach 300,000 miles before needing rebuild/replacement. My brother took really good care of it.
Back to the shifter cable. If my son doesn't get to it soon. I'm going to have to attempt it myself. Looking at the illustration's looks like I may need small socket set and screwdrivers?
Any input you have is greatly appreciated. Take care.
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Sunday, June 1st, 2025 AT 2:47 PM
Tiny
KEN L
  • MASTER CERTIFIED MECHANIC
  • 54,137 POSTS
Yep, you will need screwdrivers and a small socket set with a pair of needle noise pliers. Also, you might need a zip tie to help keep the cable out of the way of the exhaust. If you get stuck upload an image so I can help you.
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Monday, June 2nd, 2025 AT 10:29 AM
Tiny
BUBBASTRUCK
  • MEMBER
  • 7 POSTS
Awesome, thanks. Didn't want to have to keep climbing in the bed of the truck to get tools out the box. Fortunately it's already lifted so I can get right under. And yes I do know to Chock the tires. LOL
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Monday, June 2nd, 2025 AT 10:45 AM
Tiny
KEN L
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Good job! Stay safe :)
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Monday, June 2nd, 2025 AT 11:38 AM

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