Need new one, I will. Yes.....
I jacked up the front end, no more of that stop just past center both with the engine off or with it running. However, When I felt the wheels, I could feel some play in there. It's not comming from the tierods - those are still good. The wheel bearings are in excelent shape also. Here's somthing intristing: the freeplay is worse about halfway between center and lock. Strange, that is.
Steering box, replace, I will. Yes....

Next question: the steering box looks fairly simple to swap, true or false?

Now, I must time share the work between getting the Outback running and getting that steering box ordered and replaced in 'portage. Fun!

Thanks, guys!
Ted