Should I use silicone spray on the TB? I have a can of Prestone Silicone Lube, but the last thing I want to do is accidently set the engine on fire. Teflon better?

Another question, please. Chilton keeps saying disconnect the negative battery cable before doing any work. Is this really necessary?

Neither of those is conductive, so don't worry about the battery cable. Either is a great lubricant ON the TB, just don't spray it into the TB mouth. If this is for the throttle shafts, pivots, springs, and cables, GO for it. Great idea. (I do this after engine cleaning).

Thanks for all the help. I'm so afraid I'm gonna screw something up.... the manual needs bigger pictures and larger print for these old eyes

WD-40 is a poor choice as a lubricant. It evaporates too quickly (especially in hot environments), and was never designed to lube. It'* good for freeing up stuck parts, and displacing water in electrical connectors.

Any teflon or silicone based lube is great. Both repel moisture, and are non-conductive as well.

Right....OUTER moving parts of the TB only!