On my 2004 freestar the steering rack moves back and forth as if loose. Bolts are torqued to specs, strut and mounting plates are free moving when tie rods are disconnected. The rack is a reman unit less than 6 months old. The problem can only be duplicated when tires are on the ground. I’m suspect the rack itself may be trying to apply pressure to both sides at the same time. Any ideas would be greatly appreciated as this has me at a loss.

 

There are bushings on the rack which are probably worn.

 

Rack is only a few months old.

 

It's not too many things that could cause that.
Wrong rack.
Incorrect bolts/worn bolts.
Cross member issues.
Loose.
That rack should not move regardless of what is happening hydraulically with it which you would have very hard steering if there were internal leakage. New doesn't mean anything when it comes to auto diagonosing.You may have to unbolt and see what is happening with it.

 

I still have issues with the rack on this van. Strut mounting plates with bearing are new, tie rod ends are new, rack is a reman unit less than 3 months old, Intermediate shaft is new, bolts are not worn and are torqued to specifications. Tie rod end and shaft were replaced due to normal wear ,not as a shotgun approach to diagnosis. Cradle does not show damage or wear and is torqued to specs.I am not a newby to auto repair but a tech and automotive instructor for my entire career so to say I am at a loss is saying this is truly unusual.