Flat socket is for the air spring side , normal sockets can chew up the cap as there's very little to get a hold of , there are videos on YouTube about how to install new wiper seals without a driver but I bought a 3D printed one and it works great and less than half the price of a fox /...
I use motorex bike specific , lime green coloured stuff, great little applicator brush 🪥, no complaints, it's grease for a push bike at the end of the day 🥺
I have the exact same shock fitted, just checked mine and it doesn't make that sound,
I take it when you try to move the shock by hand it's well secure??
I emailed Specialized about the very same subject and they said January/February time with possible new colour schemes, they will email when they become available 👍
I have the fox defend 3l ones in black, had them for a few years now still going strong, only issue is I'm getting a bit of a damp ass now so the waterproofing is maybe not as good as when new 👍