ok- when i grab my tie rod and shake it, it shakes where it connects to the rack. do i need to replace the rod or the rack? any help would be great. thanks

 

Sounds like the inner tie-rod is worn. Lisle makes a tool to remove inner tie-rods, NAPA or Pepboys should have the tool. Autozone may even have it as a loaner tool.
Remove the outer t-r from the inner t-r, then remove the boot to access the location to unscrew the inner t-r. Be sure to count how many turns it takes to get the outer t-r off, this way the toe setting should be close to spec when you put everything back together. Get 4 wheel alignment.

 

bah, i change them with pipe wrenches no need for a special tool. I probably changed about 5 with a pipe wrench.