Steering Gear Box Shaft Pitman Problems of Chevrolet C/k 2500

I purchased this vehicle from a dealer with a one year certified used warranty at 49k miles. Within a month of purchase I noticed an excessive amount of free-play in the steering and noticed a loose pitman arm when rotating the steering wheel and observing this part. I took the vehicle to two different dealers in the indianapolis area. After their inspection and consulting gm concerning this issue, I was told free-play was normal or within parameters. One year later and 69k miles, I take the vehicle in for service (oil & filter changes etc) and to have them please look at the brakes as I could feel a vibration. The vehicle is now out of warranty. . . They tell me now that these parts (pitman arm / steering box) will need to be replaced along with both front wheel bearings to the tune of just under $2,000. I have done my own research and have found many complaints in regards to steering assembly / parts on these trucks. Nothing I have found says that this much free-play is "normal" in regards to this vehicle and in fact, some front wheel axles and wheel assemblies have actually separated from the vehicle. My wheels or bearings (I saw for myself when it was on the lift and I have the old parts) had a dangerous amount of wobble in them, with the right wheel having in excess of 1" of tilt or looseness. This in my opinion does not constitute "normal" play and I question gm's honesty concerning this issue. . . Why is this acceptable when under warranty but needs expensive repair when its on my dime? I believe gm is aware of the problem but is pushing the cost off to their customers.

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