Gas pedal bad angle , too tight, et al Adjust possible?

Ok I went through the steps in the manual, except skipped the part about loosening the transmission link, and inserting a 3/16 rod , 4 inches long. For fear of not getting it back to where it started.

I cinched up the threaded rod on the gas pedal, got the angle closer to 118. much easier to press now, and I HAVE KICKDOWN.

However I am still not happy about the bushing on the inside of the car holding the accelerator rod, it is bad. What is the name of it so I can try to track one down?
Also it is putting undue pressure on the firewall, and causing firewall to dimple in anytime I press pedal down.
Man that firewall is thin and flexy.
Check pics.
p.s. I did not adjust the threaded rod in the engine side, as it feels like it is already maxed out in terms of length. I could make it shorter but I would think that may worsen the angle of the throttle rod? help?
Seriously I was driving down the streets, and flooring it just to feel and hear the kickdown in action. super woody