Thanks for the reply Liquifire.
The tranny fluid and filter were serviced ~March '09, so it's as fresh as a non-flush can be. I'll try posting in the tranny section, I've seen some of Trannyman's responses..sounds like he knows his trade.
I'll keep my eyes open for a good deal on a steering rack, but no rush. For right now it's a nuisance, but no performance issues evident.
I do wonder though; I see racks available with ad without 'Variable Effort Steering'. How do I identify whether mine is equipped?
Thanks - Jim G