Well, I took JD's advice and removed the boot on the inner tie rod, and found there was no play or looseness in the tie rod end. After having my wife move the steering wheel and me watching underneath, the end of the steering rack is moving front-to-back - apparently the bushing or whatever supports the rack is worn. Once I saw that, I found several posts here regarding the same issue, I guess I am not alone. Good thing there was no oil in the boot, that steering unit is expensive. I will just wait until it gets much worse.