Toyota Repair: Worn Tie Rod on 2000 Tacoma, independent auto repair, inner tie rod

Question
I have a 2000 Tacoma 4wd SR5, extended cab with 38K miles on it.  I bought it new from a toyota dealership. It had ~750 miles on it as it had been used in a golf tournament a few months earlier.

I went to an independent auto repair (very reputable according to Better bus. bureau) and they said that my left inner tie rod was worn. They also said that front and rear shocks were leaking and should be replaced immediately.

I took my truck back to the dealership where I bought it and asked for a 2nd opinion. They said that yes, the inner tie rod was loose. They said if I didn't replace it, I could end up with uneven tire wear, vehicle not staying in alignment, etc. They quoted $289 (150 for part, 50 labor and 89 for alignment). Regarding the shocks, they said that all Toyota shocks leak and not to worry about it. I expressed my desire to have this covered under warranty but was told "Not a chance. You are out by time and miles". I still think given how early this problem happened, I shouldn't have to pay for it.

I have owned various trucks for 12 years. I have never had to replace a tie rod, no matter the milage. This seems awful early to have to replac e this.  If I get it replaced, how do I know that this new rod won't just "get loose" like the old one? This is not something I want to replace every 3 years.

Can you advise as to whether or not you think this truck is a lemon and I should dump and run before going in debt to my local dealership? Also, do I have any recourse to get reimbursed for this repair?

Any thoughts as to what might have caused the problem? I commute with my truck on pavement. It's been in 4WD about 3-4 times a winter season.

Thanks in advance,
K

Answer
I'll try to answer the best I can, first of all if it had 750 miles on it when you bought it,it is considered a used vehicle in many states because there may be a mileage limit that a vehicle can have and still be considered a new vehicle, check with your BBB or bureau of automotive repair.
That said, I can't figure out why this part would wear out at this mileage it is certainly very unusual,the dealer's statement that "all toyota shocks leak" sends up a red flag in my opinion,there is something else going on here, I would pass up the whole deal unless the selling dealer will let you take it to another dealer to have it checked out(at your expense)but this can save you some grief down the road.