Its not only the 250,000 mileage but its 20 yo rubber. I don't think you need a steering gear box, just needs adjustment. When you run out of adjustment THEN replace the box.

Shocks are common at around 150K. Control arm bushings (primarily the lower ones), ball joints, tie rod ends, idler arm bushings and the guide rod bushings.

The shuddering you feel on while braking IF SUSPENSION RELATED is most likely guide rod bushings (aka strut rod bushings). The guide rod controls the fore and aft movement of the lower control arm. There is a tremendous amount of energy being transmitted from the car onto the tire/pavement connection. The rear of the car wants to press down and forward onto the front suspension and the guide rod keeps the front suspension from collapsing under braking.

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84 300DT Puke Yellow. Totalled after 438,000
84 300DT Orient Red. 169,000 (actual mileage may vary)
2002 Explorer EB (wife's)