I have a 98 Ford Ranger that has loose steering. I have traced the problem to this small coupling that links the lower steering shaft to the upper steering shaft. I guess it is made to wear. I have been trying to find what this item would be called to order a new one. I am needing some help with identifying this part.

This is the part I need to identify above

This is where the part goes. It goes on the end of this upper shaft that goes to the steering column and then connects to the lower shaft

This is the lower shaft that connects to this part

 

I believe that is a steering extension for body lifted trucks. I'd check the lower shaft where it meets the steering rack also if you haven't already.