TV Cable bushing

So I looked at my TV cable bushing today. Or lack there of. It seems that the throttle cable bushing is gone but its still holding on very very well. I'm going to order the part for replacement from ford today, but could someone describe to me exactly what would make my transmission malfunction without the bushing being there, and why is my throttle cable holding on so well still? Thanks, Joe.

So, I'm an idoit! I went to ford and bought the bushing, looked at it again. And realized I was looking at the wrong side! Someone had already performed the brass bushing upgrade. So I wasted $5. But at least now I know that my bushing is okay. At any rate, the other side of the throttle thingie has some sort of spacer or something thats crumbled. It dosent seem to inhibit function but it is a little wobbly. Any thoughts on if I should leave it or not?

Wow you're quick !!!
10:37 to 11:50 and your problem is solved :)

As for the crumbled thingie... sounds like some kind of dust shield?

Yeah I was thinking it was something stupid. It holds real well, I couldnt pull it apart and didnt want to force it. At least I know its not sussecptable to that problem.