How to fix bathtub waste popup lever

[psarinuk]

Hi,
The lever shown in the pic has come loose on the bathtub.
It does not screw back now because of the black cable holding the gear inside the lever pocket.

Does the black cable need to be detached for proper installation? And can it be reattached in the end?

Many thanks for your help.

 

[Elsa TLC]

Easier to chuck it away and fit a new one.

 

[Elkato531]

Looks as if the female thread in the housing has broken off. Not repairable so replace it.