The first surprise was the missing 6 - 7" of the leaf spring
I started disassembling the axle starting on the passenger side. The amount I could rock the wheel top to bottom had grown to near 1" by now. By the time the knuckle was off, it was apparent that the ball joints were hosed. And this was the good side.
Got to the driver's side, everything still going smooth. On this side, the wheel could be rocked 1-1/4 to 1-1/2". Before anyone says anything, yeah, I let this go way too long, I know. been too dam busy trying to get through probation at work to pay attention to the vehicles. Anyway, I got to the knuckle removal and it came off without incident. Popped it into the parts cleaner and as I was moving it, the upper ball joint pulled out. CRAP!
In comparing the two knuckles I noticed that the upper part of the driver's knuckle appeared bent and the bore for the joint wallered out. Possibly a bad press job? The left knuckle is the pass. side. The right is the dr. side. Notice how the joint doesn't sit flush with the bent flat top? And yes, the joint goes in and out easily by hand.
Looks like Im on the hunt for a new knuckle now as well.