So I have a 91 DX with no power steering. In the steering wheel there seems to be a little bit of play or kind of a null area where I can move the wheel and it has no effect on the position of the tires. Now I was told this might be due to old tie rod ends. I have since change the outer and was changing the inner passenger side when I noticed that the rack(part that connect to the inner tie rod/male side) seem to have a bit of play with in the pinion housing (female end)

I have been told conflicting things about whether this is normal to have a little wiggle and I have also been told this means my entire rack needs to be replaced. Could any help me out a bit with this?
Thank you.

 

Every 88-91 needs the original rack replaced. I would recommend a new rack and both outer tie rods. There should be no play at all in any part of the suspension.

 

I am going to have to ask the dealer about a manual rack

 

There are numerous points of possible play.

Most likely is the pinion adjustment. A very large lock nut on the rack that gets loosened and then adjusted.

Also the pinion universal joint may not be fully tight on the pinion. And the joint itself can by sloppy.

And yes the 4 ball joints make up the inner and outer toe rods are typical wear areas as well.

Yes, its normal that cars wear down, but it's all fixable or replaceable.