Honda Repair: honda shifting problems, moving mountain, emergency key

Question
We bought 1990 Honda civic. Trans shift was making noise, mechanic said we need another. so he replaced it . now, trans shifting handle is so hard to move from park to rev or neut or drive. we took it bck, opened handle, we tied to string solenoid and clip with plastic tie  so we dont have to use emergency key on hole all time to shift BUT still shifting is hard,its like moving mountain to get it in drive from park, please help.we have enough lube in there. trans seems fine with red color fluid in there. Can bad solenoid or shifting cable cause this and if so how important is it to replace solenoid or cable and where to get it cheap if necessary.

Answer
DG,

Hello. You need a new shift cable. Through the years, they get dirty. The only way to fix it is to replace the cable. Cable runs about $150 and is not too difficult to replace. That should take care of your problem.
Good luck and thanks for the question.
Gene