On 1985 500sel (170,000 mi) . Right front end squaks on bumps or when one flexes front end. Rubber seal is torn on lower ball joint but there is no tire scuff or vibration. Can this joint be lubricated ?
Thanks,
Freddie

Yes, it can be lubed. But if a ball joint's "boot" is torn, the ball joint must be replaced. The whole reason for the boot (and the grease in it) is to protect the metal components of the ball joint from corrosive elements. The noise you are hearing is a result of the torn boot and it's resultant exposure to the elements. A new ball joint should take care of the noise, assuming nothing else is in need of attention. Check the other side also. If that one isn't torn, it's a good opportunity to lube it. This will help keep it healthy.

IMHO

Primo

also check the front axle bearing carrier and guide mount assembly, ..if worn out, this will contribute to your front axle rattling noise. On some occasion, ...the front sway bar bushing also makes this noise....

Id say its the sway bar. We had the same problem on the last 1 mercs we had. The previous owners actually tried to glue it back together.

get a pro to weld it back together, and dont waste time as your tyres will suffer also

Christian, Syd Australia

1979 450 SEL 6.9
1988 260E
1989 300TE
1999 ML320