Hello, all. My ignition actuator fell apart last week, and I’ve been working on replacing the upper and lower ignition actuator since then. I’m almost finished removing the steering column, But I am hung up on the shift cable. The shift cable (aka transmission cable) is attached to the steering column mounting frame in my 1996 Ford Ranger XLT automatic. I am attaching a picture of the cable mounting bracket. I’ve cried on the plastic part as much as I dare without breaking it. I cannot figure out where the locking tab is and how to manipulate it to release the cable.
Can someone please explain how to get that cable disconnected from the bracket?

Shift transmission cable attached to mounting bracket with invisible locking tab

 

I'm having the same problem, did you find a solution?

 

I think it just pops out. I remember contorting my body down there with a long heavy duty screwdriver and prying. If I recall correctly, it eventually popped out and I cursed some more. I don't remember there being any special trick, but I also can't remember exactly what it took. Sorry! Good luck.

 

Their are 2 plastic tabs on the bottom side on each side of the metal, you can see the one on the picture, I was able to get one screwdriver under and pop them out a little one at a time and they stayed out, then I could reach my hand in and push it out towards the engine side. Hope this helps as I couldn’t find any answers online either!