OK, left to right movement can be caused by: worn tie rod ends, worn wheel bearing, worn ball joint, or worn control arm bushings. To replace the ball joint you would need a ball joint press. To replace the tie rod end, you would need a small puller. The control arm bushings are a major league job for a DIY'er. You'd be better off buying a complete control arm that has new bushings and a new ball joint. The wheel bearing is the easiest of all to replace. However, you will need a very large socket and a long breaker bar to remove the axle nut.
Bottom line, you should do some more checking to see exactly where the play is or take it to a shop. 1/2 movement is a LOT of play!
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