Jan,
As far as I can remember, there is supposed to be longtitudinal slot in the bar just below where the twist starts. The pin fits through that to hold the spring below that level, with a chance to ride up and down a bit, but if it works to your satisfaction the way you have it, it's probably best to leave well-enough alone.

I'm in Maine, and the snow is melting nicely. In fact, so niclely that I had to park my 142E crosswise in the entrance of my driveway to keep myself from getting mired down and to save visitors from the same fate. Once the underlying frost is gone thing will dry out quickly.
Bob S.