Sorry about the heavy postings.
Just want to make sure of a smooth migration from VA to CA.

After contemplating all the choices at an auto parts store, settled on a spray can of White Lithium Grease made by STP to lubricate all the control linkage balls on the 300SD engine.
It's a penetrating lubricator but doesn't mention being able to handle engine compartment heat. Ok to use ?
I sprayed on without taking apart the connections.
MB manual mentions hydraulic fluid oil but not sure where to find the stuff.

Thanks.

The spec. for my two M-Bs says to use auto. trans fluid for lubricating the throttle linkage. I use an oiler with a spout that is long enough to reach all of the ball connectors and squirt just enough in to lube and not drip. Before I apply, I clean each ball connector with a rag. This process has worked successfully for me for a long time.

Good luck.

Thanks a bunch !

I guess the main thing is to at least keep the connections clean and keep an eye on them.