early A steering

That joint is just a coupler, not a dampner. It has grease in it as does the manual gear box. The service manual says you can put 90w gear oil in it but I've found that it usually leaks out if you do. Especially on the bushing versions. I would take the steering gear out of the car and take the top off the box and pack it with a good wheel bearing grease. You'll need a good service manual to do this as there are adjustments that have to be made or you can ruin the box.