Check to be sure all the lug nuts on the wheels are tight. Then jack up one side at a time and see if you can move the wheels by pulling and pushing on the top of the tire. That will tell you if you have a loose wheel bearing. Should only have the tinyest bit of movement. While both wheels are still on the ground have someone else slowly turn the steering wheel back and forth while watching the steering linkage for movement before the tire starts to turn. You'll need to be laying on the ground in front of the truck to see what's happening. It should not be running while doing this. Have the person turning the steering wheel keep you informed as to how much they are turning the wheel. Watch the pitman arm on the steering box for how long it takes before it starts moving. Then look at each joint in the steering linkage for excessive play.
Or you can take it to an alignment shop and have a pro check it out. They shouldn't charge much or anything to tell you what needs to be fixed. Avoid dealerships and national chains like Firestone or Goodyear or Midas. They tend be over priced and not the kind of place to take a 20+ year old vehicle. Find a local independent shop with a good rep. After their evaluation you can decide whether to pay them or do it yourself.
Since you don't sound like an experienced auto repairman or women, steering and suspension aren't the best place to learn. If something fails not only are you at risk, but so is everyone else on the road. You will need the shop to do an alignment when finished whoever does the work.
I also would not drive it in it's present condition. Except maybe to carefully get it to a shop for a diagnosis before a wheel falls off.
Or you can take it to an alignment shop and have a pro check it out. They shouldn't charge much or anything to tell you what needs to be fixed. Avoid dealerships and national chains like Firestone or Goodyear or Midas. They tend be over priced and not the kind of place to take a 20+ year old vehicle. Find a local independent shop with a good rep. After their evaluation you can decide whether to pay them or do it yourself.
Since you don't sound like an experienced auto repairman or women, steering and suspension aren't the best place to learn. If something fails not only are you at risk, but so is everyone else on the road. You will need the shop to do an alignment when finished whoever does the work.
I also would not drive it in it's present condition. Except maybe to carefully get it to a shop for a diagnosis before a wheel falls off.
