I have a lot of play in my steering and quite a bit of noise (rattling metal of some sort) when going over any bumps. Dealer said my track bar and shocks need to be replaced. Does anyone have similar experience with this? I do not want to spend $700 that they want to charge me. I can do this myself. Any suggestions would be greatly appreciated.

 

Just to get started;
First I would suggest to have someone turn the steering wheel a little in each direction back and forth while you get under the front end and look at every joint and part that moves . What you're looking for is any looseness in any of those moving parts, like tie rod ends, pitman arm , drag link and ball joints. The ball joints need to be unloaded (weight removed) to be checked properly. This may give you some idea where the excessive play is originating. I'm sure you will receive additional suggestions from other members. We'll keep you busy!

 

I agree with hanky that you need to do these things first.Hope this would solve your problem.

 

I have the same problem with my 91 explorer 2wheel drive, it just failed inspection for worn RF tire and LH upper ball joint, but I notice excessive play long before this. I even tightened up the steering gear via the adjustment screw, but now it's just tight with the same play. I've been searching around and came upon a post that suggested control arm bushings worn out....which, mine are.