Hi James
No information on preload adjustment, I leave that to the company who reco's the rack (eg. Active Power Steering).
On the newer TWR racks there is a plastic screw-in cover over the adjustment section, and the thread is centre punched at ends so it doesnt come out. The recon people have a bit of trouble getting it out judging by the condition of it afterwards.
Sure outer tie rod ends can be easily replaced by home mechanic, other than that in my 240 experience the play develops at the inner tie rods and not in the rack and pinion section. Seal and old boot leaks are another matter and thats where a steering shops genuine TWR refurb kit gives a as new return service.
