Well I got the Steeda kit installed. The stock plastic quadrant/adjuster removal was the worst part of the job. P I T A.
The firewall adjuster wasn't a walk in the park either, but with a 1/4" ratchet, two extensions, and a swivel I was able to do it somewhat quickly.
I did use the included Steeda cable. I kept my Ford cable as a backup!! What exactly is the problem area with the aftermarket cables? Do they break commonly? Stretch? Don't operate as smoothly?
So far it feels a lot different, but it does seem to hit 3rd gear a lot more easily.