replacing select lever cable 94-97 accord

[hroc2]

i'm having difficulty shifting in and out of park. i have a 96 accord lx with 200K+ miles on it. i have checked the cable at the trans end and greased it. i plan on taking the front console out to see if it is out of adjustment. but, after this many miles i suspect it is the cable. the position sensor is ok. the service manual recommends i remove the B-pipe to access the heat shield covering a bracket that holds the select cable in place. i also read online you can unbolt the heat shield at the front to access the cable mounting screws. can i just drop the heat shield? i think it is held on by 2 bolts and 3 screws. is the resonator pipe the B-pipe because i just recently replaced it. any tips would be helpful. thanks for your time.