Door Latch problem
 

My driver's side door opens, closes, and locks fine from the outside. Inside everything works BUT the lever has about 1" play before it starts to open the door. It feels like I'm pulling it out way too far before the door opens.
I tried adjusting the release rod between the latch release lever and the inside handle itself but I ran out of adjustment. I hate to take the door apart yet again but I'm thinking that I might end up with a time that I pull on the door lever and it doesn't release.
1) Is it possible that the release cable (#21 on pg 570-6 in Bentleys) has stretched?
2) If so, has anyone replaced one (and have suggestions)? Do I have to take out the glass to replace it?
TIA for any help.

Just a thought: Maybe you could fab up a shorter release rod out of a piece of rod, and do the cable work some other time when you have to open up the door for something else, or over the winter.

I already thought of that but unfortunately I don't have the equipment or expertice to fab stuff up. The inside lever come all the way out except for about 1/2" before the door pops open. Way too much travel. Any other ideas? Has anyone replaced the cable? Is there any adjustment on the cable itself?

Anyone replaced the cable?