I had the Intermediate Steering Shaft replaced on my last TV 2004 with about 18,000 miles on it, they showed me the old shaft and you couldn't see any wear, the new one was a lot better. I don't thank there is a safety factor in this problem. Now on my 2005 TV it is starting to feel the same way with about 20,000 miles.
Larry & LaVonne Hummel
05 Chevy HD D/A
05 Mountaineer 298RLS