UK Car Repair: Daihatsu steering concern, daihatsu charade, manual rack

Question
I have a 1988 Daihatsu Charade. The thing that concerns me is that I can move the steering wheel in and out about 1/4". The steering wheel won't move from side to side. There is a u-joint above the brake pedal and there is a coupler going from that to the manual rack and pinion at the firewall. The coupler can be moved from side to side a little on the driver's side of the firewall. Could I just be missing a bushing or could it be something more serious. I have never had any car do this before? Have you? I ask you because no one here in the USA knows anything about Daihatsu.  

Answer
Hi Michael, the reason for this is the steering column is designed to collapse in an impact. There may be a worn bush, but it would be nothing to worry about (1988 is going to have some worn parts, I own a 89 new Yorker and there are many worn parts on it but none are dangerous) If the U/J was faulty the steering would feel tight and suddenly release and go tight again as it turns through its circle.
If this is the case then you would need to replace the U/J. hope it helps - Paul