While trying to fix a clunking noise I've noticed a few other things going on. I have the car on jackstands and the wheel is locked. When I grab the tire at 9 and 3 o'clock I get some wiggle. It is not coming from the outer tierods. I can see the inner tie rod boot cover moving in and out when doing this. It only moves a few mm's but there is play and I do have quite a bit vibration in the steering wheel at idle and while driving. I'm wondering if this is caused by my steering rack or maybe the inner tie rods. I have replaced my inner tie rods and the steering rack bushings about year and a half ago. Bushings still look fine. Also, it does it on both the drivers side and passenger side. Here is a video so you can get an idea:


Thanks!

 

That's a LOT of play, your tires will get wrecked driving it like that. Doesn't it wander all over the road? It's been a long time since I had to get into that area (years) but I seem to recall there's a ball joint at the end of the rack, if I am right that's probably the cause. You need to take the gaiter off and look more closely.

 

What's locking the steering wheel, the ignition lock? If so that's not going to hold it tight enough and your probably seeing the result in excessive slop.

Start the car so the power steering is pumping, have somebody hold the steering wheel tight. Do your test again, I'm sure you'll see huge improvements in stability.

 

Yeah it was just the ignition lock. I'll have someone hold the steering wheel and retest. Thanks

 

also check to make sure the rack is not moving side-to-side and slipping past the bushings, just in case. no need to lock the steering wheel for that
check your endlinks as well. those dry out and make funny noises also.