Things generally feel ok while driving, but once in a while there's a feeling of slop in the steering.

If I wiggle the steering wheel slightly back and forth when the car is off a loud clunking can be heard. With the wheels in the air, that clunking can only be heard if you somewhat forcefully get to full lock on either side.

There's no slop in any of the inner or outer tie-rod ends and as far as I can tell none in the rack either (although I'm positive about the rack). This and the symptoms above make me think it's the bushings. The chassis's got 250k miles on it.

Anyone agree/disagree with the diagnosis?

 

check youre u joints at the bottom of the steering column. check for play there too.

and did you check both sides of the rack for play? at least try readjusting the pinion?