IIRC that's the point that the throttle cable comes through the bulkhead. Not quite sure what the spring is for...maybe just for protection (like a cable gland)?
It is the throttle cable, and afaik, the spirng is there for cable relief, as a 90degree kink wouldn't be too useful... The spring and flang are part of the cable, moulded on the end.
hi the cables are the same for the manual and auto
it is the auto that has i switch on the pedal side and uses the spring as a return....its all to do with the kick down part of the auto box