So after breaking some 25 yr old plastic linkage while removing my intake I order some factory spares of course coming from Germany. So i went to the local pick and pull and was able to find plenty of metal ball and socket pieces make my own pieces. Only problem is these are so hard to remove without bending the arms they are attached to and it got me thinking. I can find quick release ball and socket linkage for American carburetors. They work with a 1/4 or .250 sized ball. The benz measures .310 or 7.8mm. They quick release probably exists just not sure the proper size. I had planned on using the metal linkage but it so difficult to remove.

I twist a wide blade screwdriver to pop the socket off the ball. No force on the rod.

Sixto
83 300SD - lots of ball-and-socket rods
98 E320 wagon - electronic throttle actuator

what is your prefered method to reinstall them?

Channel locking pliers where possible, pair of pry bars where necessary such as between intake manifold runners - one to push the socket, one so whatever the ball's on doesn't bend too much.

Sixto
83 300SD
98 E320 wagon

hmm the quick release would be so much nicer

hmmm mcmaster carr has them for 10mm balls

https://www.mcmaster.com/#9416k47/=16j1h5a

MINI QUICK DISCONNECT Gas Strut Spring 8mm Ball Socket End Fitting + Stud M6x1.0 | eBay

pricey but they exist

I guess you can fashion a tool to use the QD where you can't get your fingers.

Sixto
83 300SD
98 E320 wagon

The commercial HVAC trade uses ball connectors for dampers.

Also try a lawn mower repair place, / HD truck parts store, they may have something. Especially if you change the ball and socket.

Also 8 mm is so near 5/16 is is the same.

yeah changing the ball to 1/4 would be the cheapest route. Though lots of the balls appear to be spot welded on the back side of the brackets

yeah this all came about when i pulled off the intake on the 92 300d to do the glow plugs. Linkage running from the injector pump to an arm by the firewall, then firewall to the throttle cable have pretty much zero room to maneuver tools to remove and install them.