Rep Power: 0

I replaced my 2000 Civic EX power steering rack and pinion since the old one was leaking. I got everything installed and used kite string to set the front toe to 0 degrees. However, there is now an annoying looseness to the steering wheel. It is possible to wiggle the steering wheel a few degrees left and right with no movement to the front wheels. I figured out the issue is with the universal joint which connects the steering wheel shaft to the rack and pinion input shaft.

The universal joint has an upper half and a lower half. Each half has splines which mate onto their respective shafts. While wiggling the steering wheel the lower half of the universal joint has some play or slack before the rotation is transferred to the rack and pinion. I tightened both bolts on the universal joint very snug but the joint still has play. Can anyone provide advice on how to tighten the universal joint or somehow remove the slack?

 
Rep Power: 222

Get a new universal joint. It's probably just worn after 22 years

 
Rep Power: 0

Thanks for advice. I will order a new one.