you must have another issue; yours must not just be a loose or stretched cable; I suspect it is kinked somewhere. I would check first behind the handle on the dash and then try to trace it to see if you can spot where it might be binding.

97 Montero SR w/Mitsu Adj Shocks & Rear Diff Lock ARB Front Diff Lock 4.9 Ring/Pinion 3.15 transfer box 43:1 crawl ratio 2" suspen lift 2" body lift 2" Gas Tank Lift 35x12.5 MTRs 15x10 Wheels Rock Sliderz ARB front bumper w/12k winch Custom rear bumper