Yes, the thrust pad sits inside the clutch fork and doesn't touch the inner clutch cone when it is engaged and cutting. When you disengage the clutch, the fork moves the thrust pad along the drive shaft until in contacts and pushes the inner cone in.
And I agree it looks like you're just missing the nut from the drum clutch lever.
Keep us updated on your progress, it'll be good to see it all back together and ready for work
