It isn't the ball joint. I disconnected the push rod that connects the lever on the IP to the rest of the throttle linkage, and the movement of the lever still had the binding. It seems to be the lever on the IP itself!

Any ideas about adjustments I can make (that don't require removing the IP!)

thanks!

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Current Mercedes
1979 maple yellow 240D 4-speed

Gone and fondly remembered:
1980 orient red 240D 4-speed

Gone and NOT fondly remembered:
1982 Chna Blue 300TD

Other car in the stable:
2013 VW Jetta Sportwagen TDI / 6-speed MT