How do I check CV joints? jack up front end and turn car to on position right? check for slack in wheel? how much? thanks guys

that method will do the tie rods, and steering parts, there should be no play at all in the axle shaft in any direction (grab the shaft and wiggle) also do you hear a popping noise when turning?

I jacked up one side and turned key to on and
I could turn the wheel about an inch each way. that normal? like clock wise and counter clock wise

that's play in the trans, turning the wheel tells you nothing, you need to see if they move in and out by grabbing the shaft itself move in all directions

When I was having axle issues (didn't know what it was at the time) I had vibration at 60-70MPH and slight vibration while accelerating and turning. Replaced everything else up front that spins and settled on the axles. Replaced both, then opened them up. Inner joint on passenger side was leaking a little grease (dealer supposedly fixed that under warranty ) and the inside was all chewed up.