can't seem to adjust the gearshift cable (from the steering column to the transmission)

It is disconected at the transmission manual shift lever ok.

Removed the gearshift cable lock tab under the steering column, but the cable won't unlock or slide to change the adjustment.

Is there something else to pry or prode to loosen up the cable?

I have the dash pad under the steering wheel off.

George
2001 3500 ram van 5.9

 

Decided to go with the quick adjust method that was suggested by ramvan 2500:

"But usually to adjust the shift linkage it is better to do it at the transmission by bending the cable bracket slightly"

This method was way to easy, took all but 5 min.

Now on the the throttle valve cable adjustments.