Tie rods/ball joints/steering 2001 Yukon XL

[Rapiti]

Original owner 2001 Yukon XL 1500 2wd.

 

Steering intermediate shaft has been replaced 2X in 35k miles. Now @ 50k and front end is sloppier than ever before.

 

We bought 7yr/70k third party extended warranty.

 

I have greased everything with a zirc up front twice a year.

 

The questions:

 

1) Any of this stuff covered under warranty? Policy reads like it is, but I am skeptical. Vehicle is bone stock.

 

2) I have heard of heavy duty tie rod ends and ball joints being available for 2wd 1500. Any part numbers or other recommendations? I am considering NAPA as a supplier, but would like more info.

 

3) Front end seems to have sagged a bit. I don't want to level it, but would like to restore front end ride height before I get the alignment done. How many turns on the torsion bar tensioners to raise it .25"? Vehicle has Autoride.

 

Thanks