Newbie PARTS, alignment suspension steering questions

[joe90]

Just bought a 99 with 190K needs tires, so I am doing an alignment as the steering play is very loose. I have searched alot on this and found things like pitman, steering box, steering sensor, tie rods, ball joints, etc. What is the most common cause in order of the parts?
What should I replace before the alignment is done so that I dont have to pay for an alignment again after replacing the part?


Also, Where is the best place online or local as to get these parts? Is AC/Delco any better or would napa quality be the same?

 

[lasinthesauce]

Quoted out of a Haynes manual (not for any GM but this would be pretty general for any vehicle)

It troubleshoots the following:
1. Loose wheel bearings
2. Excessive wear in suspension bushings
3. Steering gear worn
4. Incorrect wheel alignment
5. Steering gear mounting bolts loose
6. Worn tie-rod ends.

So the loose steering could very well just be an alignment issue, but I imagine it's probably the bearings as 190k mi or km is a lot for bearings, especially if the vehicle has been sitting for extended periods of time with no movement.

---------- Post added at 11:09 AM ---------- Previous post was at 11:07 AM ----------

Also, I don't think there's an issue getting an alignment before replacing things such as bearings, gear/bolts.. though if the tie-rods are replaced I think it would be required to have an alignment done after replacement. So best get that checked out before !

 

[SunlitComet]

get some help to move the steering whel and get down under there as see what is actually worn. dont just throw parts at it and when you buy them buy moog. rock auto and amazon have the best prices likely