I have mine like yours - running under the mount and alongside the oil pan. Jeremy and I both think this is acceptable. With mine like that, no creaks or issues.
I dont suppose that while your had the cable detached but still routed how it was (to keep it in it's natural curvature), you ran it through its sheath to ensure it slides nice and smooth?
A new OEM-style cable is not a bad idea and is something I'd try myself. I dont like throwing money at parts, but 50 bucks spent on a cable is close to what a tow would cost if the cable broke (plus needing a cable on top of that). And it's nice to have a spare cable (your old one).
Good luck.