Thanks to both of you for the information.

Before starting the work the steering was loose to say the least. The ball joints were just barely staying in their sockets. I have already ordered a new steering box to reduce the play that I find there.

I noticed when I was installing everything back together all the ball joints seemed to be stiff. With just the spindles attached to the control arms, and nothing else connected, it took a little more pressure than I expected to move the spindles back in forth.

I have driven the car less than five miles since I did the work. I’ll drive it a few more miles and see if they loosen up. If they don’t I contact the retailer back.