might be 3/4 inch or so adjustment left at the cable box end of the shift cable. On cable lengths -- think throttle cables are usually a little longer than shift cables, as the throttle is typically on the left side in older motors. So might find your throttle cable is indeed a little longer. If opening the box to switch them, could check to see if the cable end adjustment would do it for you (shift cable). Whatever is easiest....
Good new year to you. (Good boating.)
Thank-you..I'll check..