Thanks, as I feared, yes, the side seals are leaking, copiously (drivers side more than passenger, but both nonetheless.
I don't think the rack teeth are worn, it feels tight, no play, but when I popped off the boots, about 6 ozs. of dirty looking fluid dropped out of the driver's side and maybe 2-3 ozs out of the pass. side.
So I'm looking at about $300-500 after the core is returned?

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1999 E320 (gave to daughter) 250K
1994 F150 (may be the end of its road) 240K
1989 560 SL (Reassembly after paint job) 160K
1986 560 SL (deceased., gave it's life protecting my wife)
1988 300 TE (departed)
1994 945T (still running strong with an upgraded cam) 349K
1986 242Ti (deceased)
1968 GT500KR (under restoration)