So you're supposed to jack up a wheel and try to push/pull the wheel at 12 & 6 o'clock and at 3 & 9 o'clock. If 12 & 6 show play it might be the ball joint or wheel bearing. If 3 & 9 show play it might be the tie rods. Correct so far?

My question is, how much play is normal and how much is excessive?

Of particular interest is the 3 & 9 test. I can move the wheel about the vertical axis a couple degrees without using much force, however I have new Moog inner & outer tie rods. I'll try to shoot a video soon.

Is there a definitive answer on a) how much force you should apply and b) given that amount of force, how much "play" (if any) is normal?

i could be wrong, but i dont think theres supposed to be any play whatsoever. i would check those new tie rods and make sure everything is tight.

^^^ you would be correct, there should be no play at all.

there should be NO play in the bearing and balljoint.

there could be a little bit of play in the steering even with new tie rods, since they do deflect slightly (they're supposed to), as do the steering rack bushings, especially if they're the originals, which I'm sure they are since Maxima guys rarely if ever change or replace them (and also make sure your steering wheel is locked).

There should be no play whatsoever!!!

If you are not sure have someone drive parallel and just behind you and have him/her look at the play on the wheels. Under load it is quite easy to confirm play.

So, it seems the play has gotten a lot worse....see these videos. Must be the rack, right?

Video 1: 3/9 test - front view

Video 2: 3/9 test - back view

Yup, I think it is the rack....

Bad rack video

You can see the inner shaft has some play.

Can someone verify for me that the play you see in the video is in fact due to the rack?

did I hear something about playing with racks?

lol, NO!

Come on, I need to make sure replacing the rack is the right move since it's gonna set me back at least 200 bucks & rent is due next week!