E46 330i, is a bit of play in the steering normal or not?

[TroubledSoul]

Hi guys, I've currently got a 53 plate 330i smoker. I have been doing a bit of work to get it back as it should be at 130k miles. This has involved new poly FCABs, new inner/outer track rods and new front discs to sort out a braking vibration issue.



Unfortunately I'm sure the steering rack has too much play. There just seems to be a bit in the middle where I can rock the wheel right to left a tiny bit. It's a purple tag rack and I'm just looking to find out if the play is a normal thing on these or if I need to replace it. Obviously I'm not paying new prices so I will need to find a low-ish mileage used item if replacement is required.

[buggalugs]

I changed all sorts trying to reduce steering play, even the column UJ and rubber disc thingy. I also got lucky and picked up a nice M3 rack off the bay which was nice. It seemed to just be a case of it all helping a little bit here and there. In the end you just have to say yeah that's good enough it's never going to steer like a caterham.

[duff]

Never noticed any play in mine, 55 330ci with 130k.

[TroubledSoul]

I feel like there's a good few mm between turning right and left and anything happening. Doesn't seem perfect to me and my OCD doesn't like it. It's a bit of a PITA job to do but granted, it isn't the end of the world.