I can feel the shimmy and see it in the steering wheel, even after I put it in neutral while coasting on the highway. I jacked the front wheel up one at a time and shook the wheel and can hear a clicking sound. I had my hand on the outer tie rod and did not feel the click there. May it's the inner tie rod(s) that's loose? What usually goes first in this suspension?
ball joints. i've never heard of inner tie rod failures, but i guess its possible. tie rods are a very good idea. if you drive too much like that, the tires will wear out prematurely.