What cycledogg described is correct. You'll know you have the shifter set to the correct spot because you will be able to see the cutaway zone where the cable head seats. Make sure you are pushing the inner shift lever and push it at least 9 times to be sure the ratchet mechanism is properly oriented. You may want to verify that it is moving properly as it could be locked up depending on what's going on with that shift cable. If you can't seem to sort things out with the cable installed, you may need to fully remove it.