How can I get these nuts off of the throttle so I can slide in the kickdown linkage

The kickdown linkage needs to be attached and adjusted. The new part you ordered looks like an accident waiting to happen. Get the genuine part. Don't be stubborn.

Grow a thick skin and ask the stupid questions, the members here will be of great help to you and help steer you the right way. This isn't a place for snowflakes.

I wonder if that loose cable will let you go to wide open throttle. I can see that your carb is not a super6 unit. Not a problem. Looks like you bought a car that the last guy didn't know WTF they were doing. You'll have lots of fun correcting their crap.

I've been working on cars since I was 14. I'm 65. Still learning. Welcome to the site.

Why do I think the last guy installed a dangerous glass fuel filter too?