Do I need a new shift cable?

[BassnChris]

Does it sound like I need a new shift cable for my 99 Optimax 225 Serial Number 0G842489 ?
When running it shifts smoothly into gear both forward and reverse. But difficult with resistance to get it into neutral. To the point where it is very difficult to ease up to a dock or load the trailer.

1. I disconnected the shift cable from the shifter handle at the console and the shifter handle moves forward to reverse very smoothly with no unexpected resistance.
2. I disconnected the shift cable from the shifter at the motor and I can manually shift it at the motor very smoothly and no unexpected resistance.
3. I adjusted the shift cable per the service manual with no improvement. While the cable was off and we were moving shifter at the helm in the step to determine play in the cable....it shifts very easy.

I noticed that after the adjustment when I shift into neutral that the shifter is not centered at the center.....does that indicate a bad/stretched cable?

Thank you in advance for you help.

[EuropeanAM]

Indicates improper adjustment.

Cable may need to be replaced. Also possible shift position switch is not
functioning properly.

[BassnChris]

Indicates improper adjustment.

Cable may need to be replaced. Also possible shift position switch is not
functioning properly.

Does the rigging tube have too tight of a turn for the shift cable?

20211018_200324.jpg20211018_200334.jpg20211018_200357.jpg20211018_200349.jpg20211018_200407.jpg

[EuropeanAM]

Shouldn't have been- but it may have been bent beyond it's minimum radius at some point (damaging the outer sheath portion of the wound cable).

[BassnChris]

Thank you Don