Ball joints?

[Fryedbm]

So I got a free 99 Ranger XLT 3.0 manual transmission but it needs work.(hit a deer) I'm not a mechanic but I have tools and can learn so I have questions. Any and all help is more appreciated than you will know.
I need to know what is in these pics and if they need replaced or anything looks wrong,like are they supposed to be leaning like that?I'm pretty sure these are upper and lower ball joints but need confirmation. Any and all input appreciate!! Thanx guys!!!

 

[Curious Hound]

First picture is a tie rod end. It's part of the steering linkage. Second picture is upper ball joint. Third picture is lower ball joint. I believe I see cracked seals on all of them. That means the grease inside is contaminated with dirt and water. So, if they aren't bad now, they will be soon.

 

[Fryedbm]

I'm a little confused then. Pics 1 and 2 are the same thing just opposite side of the vehicle.please expand on that. However should they be leaning in opposite directions like they are? One is forward and one is backwards.....

 

[pjtoledo]

Eric is referring to the lower 3 pics.
to check the tie rods lift just 1 wheel then move that wheel. if you see any movement the joint is bad.
if you can easily rotate the tie rod it is bad.
with no fresh grease showing on the torn boots the ball joints are now bad.

 

[Eddo Rogue]

It is not the lean that is showing a problem, it is the torn boots. You grab it with your hand and move it to sit in top if you like. They wobble around as the steering works anyways. If you do decide to take on the job, keep in mind you will need an alignment after. If you count the threads (or measure) before removing the old tie rod, you can replace the new one in the same position to get the toe within ballpark enough to be able to drive it to the alignment shop.

 

[Fryedbm]

Eric is referring to the lower 3 pics.
to check the tie rods lift just 1 wheel then move that wheel. if you see any movement the joint is bad.
if you can easily rotate the tie rod it is bad.
with no fresh grease showing on the torn boots the ball joints are now bad.

Ty so much!!!

 

[Fryedbm]

It is not the lean that is showing a problem, it is the torn boots. You grab it with your hand and move it to sit in top if you like. They wobble around as the steering works anyways. If you do decide to take on the job, keep in mind you will need an alignment after. If you count the threads (or measure) before removing the old tie rod, you can replace the new one in the same position to get the toe within ballpark enough to be able to drive it to the alignment shop.

Ty. I am gonna do this on my own so I need all advice so this is so much appreciated!!!!