Checking front end for loose parts

97 Blazer LT 4 DR., 4.3ltr. 145k miles, 4x4. What is the correct way to check the front end for loose parts. I''ve heard wheels off the ground and move a wheel  back and forth. I''ve heard wheels on the ground and pull the center link up and down. I do need front end work but I want to replace what I can myself, before I take it in and they tell me it will cost $500 bucks. Here''s what I know, and have replaced already: Upper and lower ball joints, {Moog} Idler arm, {Moog} problem solver. The other parts I''m just not sure how to go about how to chek them. Feel for slop at the joints? Any help on this is always appreciated, Thanks.

Depends on what you are checking.  Some items cannot be checked with weight on the wheels and some require weight..

Ball joints can be checked either way.  Uppers are easier to check with the wheels on the ground while lowers are easier with the weight off. 

Tie rod ends are easily checked with the vehicle on the ground, but just as easy to check with the front end up in the air.

Wheel bearings are much easier to check with the weight off of them.

I guess to be specific, pitman arm and inner and outer tie rods I want to check. The rest have been replaced recently, Thanks.