how much play is normal in this generation? driving my parents expedetion it seems like my wheel is crazy loose? should i be concerned?

 

You should have that checked ASAP!

 

My 97 2wd had the "wanders". This weekend I had the front wheels up and grabing the passenger front tire at 3 & 9 it moved a lot. also at 12 and 6 (think of a clock face. I watched the tie rod assembly move ALOT when I moved the tire.
I replaced the inner, outer tie rods and the adjuster sleeve. Most of the "looseness" is gone. Still need to replace the rest of the steering parts, ball joints and get a true alignment. But its 100% better than it was.