Thanks for all the comments on the stiff gas pedal/throttle return
springs.  Several folks mentioned situations causing increased friction of
the throttle shaft in the housing.  I don't find this on mine, just too
much spring pressure pulling it shut.  I have been driving around with the
long spring that attaches to the air manifold housing removed, and it seems
fine.  There has never been any hesitation with the throttle closing.  Even
with that spring removed, the top spring that is wrapped around the
throttle shaft still does apply some pressure.  At some point I will take
that all apart and see if there is anything else wrong in there.

This change really does improve the van driving experience.  My leg doesn't
get tired, and the acceleration is improved because the pedal goes down so
much easier :)

Edward