Thought I heard a new noise while going over some moderate road bumps, so in the process of checking that out I found there is some play in the steering. It seems to be originating from the junction of the end of the steering column and that long horizontal notched rod in the middle of the steering box (?). When I put the car up and jerk the wheel around - as if checking the ball joints - it makes a slight thud sound along with exhibiting some play in that area. All the other joints between there and the wheels, along with that joint on the lower column itself, seem solid.
Could you tell me what could cause this and if it is a serious, meaning dangerous, condition.
It's a '90 sedan automatic with about 120K on it.
As usual, thanks for your help.