Larry writes:

"I'm curious.  Are you saying they failed it just because the boot was
ripped or was the tie rod end so worn and loose that it caused the
steering to be unsafe?  What state is this?

Larry A."

they failed the inspection due to a loose inner tie rod.  The boot was ripped (I didn't notice it before yet never really looked either).  I noticed the outer tie rod boot cracked and dry rotted.  The technican showed me the play as he grabbed the wheel at 9 and 3 o'clock revealing play in the steering.  While driving on the open highway the steering does appear to be a little loose, however I think this is a common symptom with vanagons anyway.  I hope to repair this soon.

tim