[Chuck Moreland]

That spring pulls the pedal in both directions. Once you start pushing the pedal, the spring helps your leg. When you release fully, the spring helps hold the pedal all the way out. The horseshoe at the tranny works this way as well.

It is a cantilever type action.

Sounds to me like you don't have the cable adjusted properly. The cable adjustment makes a huge difference in pedal feel. Missadjustment can make the pedal very heavy.

Also make sure you don't have the spring upside down. If the clutch arm is hitting the spring, it's upside down.