Could worn out ball joints be a factor a vehicle not being able to hold an alignment?
Could worn tie-rod ends do the same thing?
1996 Dakota, extended cab, 3,9L V6, Auto trans, 4x4, 93,000 miles.

 

Absolutely. A proper alignment is based on the fact that all steering/suspension items are in good shape. Any play in the steering components wont even allow for correct adjustments.

 

Ken's right. When I tried to get an alignment done on my old GMC Sonoma, they said they couldn't do it because the front ball joints, tie rod ends, and idler arm were all worn and needed to be replaced. $1500 worth of work that I didn't have at the time [:@]

 

Thanks for the replys.
I was planning on doing the ball joints and tie-rod ends when I go home in August, but I'll probably replace the idler arm and pitman arm as well so I can just call the whole steering linkage good.
As for now, looks like I have a starter installation coming my way!

 

Tie rods should have zero play in them. As for ball joints some manufacturers allow for more tollerance in play. GM is one such company if you have a blazer or pu you can count on replacing front end parts. Make sure they check the specs on the ball joints and show you the readings as to them being bad. Chances are being the age and the milage they should be done. One big mistake alot of people make is they dont keep them lubed properly.