Thanks guys. I was going to do a search on injectors but I'll ask now.The problem is,when starting the car cold (even in July @80deg.) but a cold engine,when it fires it emits bluish smoke and really"nails" til it gets warm.After I did the diesel purge(2cans) It subsided abit but still does it somewhat.This is my 5th diesel and my experience tells me that's a plugged injector.If it was a glow-plug wouldn't it be hard starting? Mine kicks over as soon as you turn the key.It just smokes,rattles & rumbles.
As for the ball joint.The car made a weird "creaking" noise on the left side when turned at slow speeds(in driveway).I jacked the car and hd my wife turn the wheel.It was coming from the ball joint.I put a small hole in the boot and used a fine point grease gun and pumped it full.It hasn't creaked since.But I'm sure it needs replacement.
My main concern is what my wife will drive whilst I have her car torn apart to fix it.I am not doing a rush-job!I considered a little beater for her while I'm at this one but again...more money for the sake of fixing the MB.Keep the comments coming.I need to make a decision soon.Winter is just around the corner in NY and I don't have a garage. THANKS!!!