Steering rack bushings need replacement?

[vinu_neuro]

Things generally feel ok while driving, but once in a while there's a feeling of slop in the steering.

If I wiggle the steering wheel slightly back and forth when the car is off a loud clunking can be heard. With the wheels in the air, that clunking can only be heard if you somewhat forcefully get to full lock on either side.

There's no slop in any of the inner or outer tie-rod ends and as far as I can tell none in the rack either (although I'm positive about the rack). This and the symptoms above make me think it's the bushings. The chassis's got 250k miles on it.

Anyone agree/disagree with the diagnosis?

 

[mechanicx]

What year and model is vehicle? You could try checking the mount bolts torque. Does the rack leak fluid? Rack could be getting air in the system, could be the rack bearing preload is off. the clunk is probably the mounts are loose or worn or the bearing preload is loose. There's a lot of miles on it.

 

[The_Jeff]

If you have it in the air and are doing the 3 and 9 oclock tire shake you'll have a little slop with the steering wheel locked if you need bushings. You may think that or inner tie rod ends.

I've seen an inner TRE that tightened up in the air but was loose on the ground, as the ball and socket had a specific wear pattern.