Steering Problem

[newtek007]

Okay. I originally posted this a couple nights ago in the Under The Hood Forum, but nobody had anything to say so I am posting it here. I really need help on this.
2002 Explorer E.B. 4x4. I have a rattling sound in my steering column. When the steering wheel is locked you can move the wheel and hear a metal like rattling sound. Is this normal? Also, when I am driving down the road I am getting feedback in the steering wheel. I am pretty sure that it is in the steering column or the intermediate shafts.
Another test- if you are sitting still with the engine running, grab the steering wheel at the top, shake it lightly to both sides and you can feel a clunk.
I can also feel this clunk when going over bumps. It is really noticeable on a dirt or gravel road.
I found a TSB in another post on this site. He stated that Ford replaced his and fixed the problem. My warranty is out so I have to do it myself. Any ideas on how to figure out which shaft is bad and how much it is going to set me back?
Here is the other article that talks about the part fix: Rscotts1
The part number is #1L2Z-3B767-BB. What did Ford do to the Intermediate shaft that fixed the problem? Has anyone else had this problem?

 

[ruzztec]

i dbe hard to tell without lookin at it. Personal Id take the whole thing out an tie and rack and all and inspect it carefully for damage and abnormal ware. Im not sure on the 3rd gens how hard it is to remove but its not too hard on the 1st and 2nd

 

[svande8952]

Sounds like the rack and pinion is getting sloppy. Could also be the bushings in the front end.

 

[newtek007]

R & P

How do you test the Rack and Pinion? I am used to the recirculating ball stuff in the 91's.