W123

I've got a 1977 240D with a starter that won't turn (or do much of anything) when the key is turned. It will, however, start right up when I bridge the two screw terminals on the smaller cylinder on the starter assembly (solenoid?). I'm not too clear how exactly the starter motor works, so I'm looking for some help on what to look at/for. More, possibly relevant, info: Drove about 150 miles through 100+ degree heat. When I stopped for lunch, car exhibited above symptoms. Banged on large starter cylinder, car started with minimal fuss. After sitting in a driveway overnight and most of the next day, starter wouldn't turn at all (or even "click"). My friend suggested bridging the two screw terminals on the solenoid with a screw driver, and this started the engine right up.

My '81 300TD TurboDiesel wagon has some kind of throttle bushing (rubbery filled metalic thing that screws onto the firewall and holds the throttle linkage from firewall to the "stop engine" lever on valve cover) on the firewall that seems to be deteriorating and the acelerator is becoming very mushy. I'm sure I'm only getting about 1/3 of the actual throttle so I'd like to replace this. I don't know what to call it, let alone where to get it. If anyone has any knowledge as to what this is called, I'd appreciate it. Thanks so much!