How loose is a little loose? There should be virtually no play in the linkage. When you press down on the accelerator pedal you change the settings on the throttle switch. The throttle switch is located side of air intake into the intake manifold. There are 4 wires that go into the connector. Don't take the switch apart unless you know what your doing. The settings can get messed up and you may have bigger problems. Check the connector clean the contacts and make sure all wires are making good contact.

Normally you would not touch the accelerator pedal and just turn the key on and let the motor start, but this not appear to be the case. Anyhow try the connector and see what happens. Good Luck.