I'm with you OP. On the Recall thread I slated out basically the same thing you just went through. Took it to a local shop, and out the door its going to be $1,500 for my drag link (which is about to fall off as well) Tie rod ends, U-Joints, Pitman arm, and all 4 Ball Joints (Moog) with alignment. (All Lifetime Parts)

Dealer wanted $800 for just one Tie Rod end, Drag Link, Pitman Arm and Alignment. They said my ball joints were good.... which 3 are OK but one has over 3/4in play in it..... I know Dodge has some crazy tolerances in their BS ball joints but.... come on......