How do I check the condition of my king pins on my 72 F100? Is it the same procedure as for checking ball joints?

 

1972 F-100 4x4?

Yes, jack the front end up so both wheels are off the ground and try pulling the top/bottom of the tire in and out. Usually the bottom kingpin goes first and your tires will look like this /\

 

It helps to actually peek around the tire and look at where the I-beam goes into the knuckle. You will see any play as relative movement between the parts.

Also, make sure that your thrust bearing don't look all torn up.

 

Your truck looks like 4x2. RWD only on your 1972 F100. The 76 is the 4x4. If so then your kingpin will be a single pin on each side. Kits include kingpins; bushings for spindle, a bearing for under axle, and maybe some shims. Kits available with either nylon or metal bushings. Many threads about this on various forums.