The force to finish a turn comes from the tires on the ground, the toe-in and caster, but I can see where a sticky U-joint would inhibit that force.

A hypothetical test might be to set both tie rods an equal amount one direction, say left for instance, so the wheel is no longer centered when the steering is, then see if the lazy spot moves along the rack or remains with the U-joint.

Most would say this goes beyond the usual part swapping approach to mechanical repair. It might indeed be time for a rebuilt rack.


--
Art Benstein near Baltimore

I used to be indecisive. Now, I'm not so sure...