[schwag one]

Everyone, I need some input. I've been helping a friend with some things on his Thunderbird (don't flame for posting about a ford), but ran into a problem. He replaced the air intake on his Thunderbird without any problems. When replacing it he heard what sounded like a spring collapsing, but didn't see one fall. All parts are still in place. The linkage is intact and the top return spring is still in place. The engine wants to turn over. Below are a few pictures, with hope it will help. Any ideas?!?!?