> > manuals use a cable, whereas the auto uses a hard linkage, which needs more
> > push?

> anyone else agree with alan here?

Well, I'd agree in the sense that it's true that the hard linkage
between the throttle body and tranny has two springs behind it and
therefore requires more "pull", but I don't think that alone would
require the TWO reinforcement bars specified (illus. 75-00, pn 251 723
520 in the ETKA). Perhaps it's because when you drive an automatic,
and ESPECIALLY a VW Type 2 automatic, you have a tendency stomp the
pedal hard so it'll downshift and give you some actual acceleration.
Conversely, the very act of changing gears on a manual requires
letting up on the gas when you put in the clutch.