It shouldn't move at all,that goes for any joint in the front end.If they move when you are just jaking the truck up,what about going down the road and you are hiting bumps there defintly moving then.Sorry to tell you the bad news.Here is a place that has some good joints and anything you need...Dodge Front Axle & Steering

 

So I definately need ball joints then because they moved up and down about an 1/8th inch or so. Is the tie rod supposed to flex.

 

Check through this thread and it should answer about any questions you may have on the subject. If you see somethin it's missing feel free to post to it so we can keep the thread updated. https://www.dieselbombers.com/5-9l-2...d-rebuild.html