What is the best solution? When you say the rack itself, what do you mean? Do you mean the steering gear at the bottom that sits on the tie rods or the shaft itself? Also, when I grab the tire at 3 and 9 o'clock, I can wiggle it slightly. It feels a little loose, though it's been that way for awhile. Is it possible that the tie rod is the issue?

I'd like to fix it right and for the long haul. What's the best way? Tie rods and a new steering rack, or a steering rack one from a junkyard?

Thanks