steering rattle

[thamesc180k]

hi all again , as i mentioned i replaced the front shocks (which needed replacing as it drives lovely now) and a replacement sway bar link rod, kind of hoping a rattle might go away in the process but no its still there.
i also replaced the orings under the cam adjuster magnets and the left one still leaked so i replaced it with a new oring again and so far they havent leaked....time will tell but looking good.
Anyways getting back to the rattlle and if i grab hold of the universal joint at the bottom of the steering shaft (where it connects to the steering rack) i can shake it and create the rattle.
for the life of me as i cant shake it from the top and see from underneath, what part is giving the issue.
the universal joint has no play so all good.
The nut of the bolt that clamps it to the 'input shaft" seems tight.
i fear the 'input shaft' may have worn the bearing?
i need to look at an exploded view diagram to look for something but does anyone have an idea or previous experience as to what it might be.
I have removed the black plate underneath to lever the rack up and down incase it was bushes but its firm, which lead me look elsewhere.
Any help appreciated thanks
ps are the 'caps' in the picture removeable to drain the rack please?

 

[BlackC55]

I think they should be left alone. I not 100% sure but I think they are adjustable steering dampers.

 

[thamesc180k]

ok i went and had another look and removed a heat sheild and got to see more, looks like the coupler has some play it it.
If i remove the bolt that clamps the Input shaft to the rack /gearbox, how does one remove/dismantle the coupling from the column shaft?

 

[thamesc180k]

well seem to be answering my own questions as i hoe into it.
i have removed the coupler from the rack and from the mid section (im asumming) of the column shaft.
Looks like the coupler has a bit of play, so will change that or maybe i can recondition it.
Can you buy new or parts like the rubber/rivets? i will investigate.