Loose front end... 2002 V70 XC. 215,000 miles.

[Tonyx]

OP, are you sure it's the rack? Are the inner tie rods confirmed not to be the issue?
Sometimes the ball joint in the tie rods feel tight when unloaded due to internal spring pressure. They need to be really tugged and pushed on to see if they have play. Visual check to see if they stay in the air isn't enough.

Inner tie rods can be done at home. You need to rent a tool from auto parts store(Inner tie rod wrench) to get it out. It's too bad you aren't near as I've done this before and can lend a hand.

Maybe I didn't read your posts carefully but rack needing replacement seem drastic.

[appleguru]

3 indie shops + a local dealer have all now said the play is from the rack. Seems pretty definitive :-/

[appleguru]

Found a local indie shop willing to do the work for a very reasonable fee (~$400 labor).

I think I'm gonna let this one be it though. Going to buy a Chevy Bolt (sight unseen). I have no place o charge it either... so really jumping in head first here. I wonder how much they'll give me for my trade in...