Hello,
I just overhauled the linkage on my '82 240D. Check the link below for a diagram of the throttle linkage. Once you remove all of the EGR related junk, it's really very simple. The idle control cable is #49 in that picture. Pretty much everything below it is necessary, although mine worked fine without the damper (#21) I replaced it with a damper from another '82 240D, and didn't really notice much of a change in the throttle response. Replacing those bushings (#76) did make quite a difference though. I'd get a new pair of those, MB part 202-301-00-93, if yours are worn out or missing.

Throttle Linkage thread

The idle control cable is really easy to replace, although the plastic piece that holds the tip of the cable breaks pretty easily. I had to go to the dealership for that one.

Good luck...
Nate

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1985 300DT, Classic White, California, 175K
1984 300TD, Classic White, Euro, 285K


"When nine hundred years old you reach, look as good you will not. Hmm?" - Yoda