I am replacing the e-brake cable in my 4Runner. When the cable broke, I pulled the handle clean out of the guide it sits in. I am trying to put it back in, but I am having a hell of a time getting it past the little cams that engage the handle.

Is there a special trick to this, or is it just a pain in the ass (or both?).

 

Both. It's sort of hard to explain how to do it to somebody else though. You have to push up on both little locking tabs at once (little screwdriver helps to get them started. When both are pushed up enough, you can just slide the handle back in no problem. It took me a while the first time. Get a flashlight, and look down in there when you're messing with the little tabs. It will become obvious when you get them in the right position to slide the handle in.

 

I figured the tabs out. I used a wooden dowel
THere is a spot on the handle that necks down after I slide it in about 6" or so, that catches the tabs.

I am thinking of
a. using a magnet to keep those retracted
b. wrapping a piece of beer can around the handle
c. Packing the truck full of explosives and evaporating it Mythbusters style.

I am honestly leaning towards C., but sinc emy 4Runner is also my ski and winter camping vehicle, I can't really do that....