Series 3 excessive play in steering

Hi all, nice site!
My truck is due for MOT tomorrow and I'm thinking it's going to fail on the steering. There is about an inch and a half of play at the steering wheel which contributes heavily to the vehicle wandering all over the road. Is this a ball joint problem or can it be rectified by tightening the steering box adjuster? I've read about this but don't know if it's the cure to my exact problem and as it's so hard to get to I thought I'd better ask first! Thanks.

It could be many things, from worn bushes in the idler arms to worn spring bushes etc,
best to let it go for MOT and rectify fault listed, the examiner will tell you exactly what is causing it if you ask.

Thanks for the reply. It failed the MOT on track rod ends, the brakes apparently don't work in synch and a wheel bearing. Any idea how they adjust the brakes to get them all pulling evenly?

Wheels off the ground, wind adjuster nut up tight then back off one click at a time untill wheel just moves without interference, a lot off this is down to feel and experience but heck you got to start somewhere.
If you still got probs you need to see if your drums are worn, shoes worn etc, best to find a friend who knows brakes if poss.