I've noticed a clunky noise that is DEFINITELY coming from the steering column, and is noticeable at low speeds after I make a turn at the point where the steering wheel first begins to return to neutral position. It can be felt through the wheel and occurs on R and L turns. Additionally, the steering is loose with about 1/4 inch of play that is the same on both sides. I've had the following done:

1. Replaced ball joints
2. Replaced intermediate steering shaft.

I took it back to have it looked at a couple of weeks ago, and apparently replacing the i-shaft is BS because newer GM cars are having this issue - it doesn't appear to be a problem with third gens. After some Google searching, apparently i-shaft malfunction is a pandemic.
The mechanic also said the steering shouldn't be a safety problem and since there aren't new parts for these cars anymore, replacing it with a used one wouldn't guarantee a fix (could possibly be worse) and would also be expensive. He told me my car looked great compared to what he sees brought in the shop, and that I shouldn't worry.

A number of years back, I noticed mildly loose steering, and I guess they went in and tightened a few screws and the issue was solved, however, there was no clunk at that time.

Should I drink this Kool-Aid and just drive it or is there something that should be done?

Thanks,
Steve

 

Your situation is similar to mine. I have a 92 Camaro. The clunk I hear and feel is the pitman shaft shifting from side to side inside the steering gear box. I found the play by lifting the front of the car and observing all moving parts of the steering while someone turned the steering wheel left and right. Check out my post on this Z28 steering box... WTF

 

https://www.thirdgen.org/forums/susp...8+steering+box

That's interesting. It sounds like this will do the trick:
http://www.monte-list.nu/tech/boxmesh.shtml

It may be a while before I can have it worked on, but I'll keep it in mind.
Thanks!

 

There may be play in the steering box itself...

 

I have the same issue. I think i mine is coming from the rag joint.