My truck will not stay driving straight. it will steer to either side. The steering is really loose, the wheel has some play before the tires actually start to turn. I know that my ball joints need to be replaced and an alignment done. But while im down there and have most of the front end apart what should I be looking for in the idler, pitman arm, and tie rods to see if they need to be replaced.

 

I would definitely take a look at them. The easiest way is to have someone move the wheel left and right while its on the ground to see if there is any play in the joints. Usually you will see them go up and down if they need to be replaced.