Hello Guys:

Have a question about my 2004 Ranger (4.0L, 4x4 w/ 95,000 miles). Awhile back I've noticed some noise coming from my front end at very low speed, sometimes while turning.

I've replaced both lower ball joints and wheel hubs in the past 10-15K miles. Both are still tight.

Upon further investigation, holding onto the shaft between the inner and outer tied rod ends, you can feel a small amount of play while wiggling the steering wheel back and forth....

It's definitely more noticeable, feel and sound on the drivers side.

Initially I thought it might be my inner tie rod end, but I disconnected my outer tie rod from it's socket so I could better feel if there was play in the inner tie rod. The inner tied rod end joint still feels tight.

I was discussing with my Dad and he had the idea to check his 2003 Dodge Dakota....it has a similar noise and small amount of play when wiggling the steering wheel. It also has around 90,000 miles.

Then we checked my Mom's 2010 Subaru with 30,000 miles. Much tighter and little to no play....

Lastly, I have started to get some significant toe wear with about 10K on my current tires...

Is some play and noise from a rack and pinion with 95K miles to be expected? Or would you guys recommend I replace?

Or should I just take it for an alignment?

I did a short you tube video so you can hear the noise....

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=T2-f...eature=mh_lolz

Thanks ahead for the advise guys.

Tony