Larry -
I don’t know about your specific cable, but John Taphorn has a design to reduce the bend radius on the intake manifold mounting point.
It’s very simple, just a bent piece of stock that guides the cable housing..... The bent stock is welded to the existing mounting bracket. I’ll try and find a picture.
i don’t think John’s mod would help in your case... I agree with you - it SEEMS LIKE the cable must be extended approx the same length as the housing for it to work properly.