Thanks for all the looks.
I believe I figured out what this cable does. It looks to be part of the system to snap the front section up and down when you release the locking handle. It still works as before, but since I only drive it on wash days, I can't tell if it's been any easier to relock the front down or not.
Work has come up this morning so I can't get to the dealer, unless maybe, I can break away early...
Will keep posted....smallfry