How to inspect Swaybar endlinks ?

[q45Owner]

I have read all the threads I could humanly find available here on the topic. I am interested in finding out how to tell if the endlinks (or the bushings) are bad?

I jacked up the car, removed the tires. I can wiggle the endlinks with very light pressure (left to right it moves) on both sides. I am not sure if should be tight or should have some play in it. The end links on my car certainly moves about 0.5 inch in each direction (left to right) - this ofcourse is when the car is jacked up.

Any info here would be helpful.

My car makes thumping sound when it goes over the bumps. 65K, 2003 Maxima with everything stock. The shocks look Ok (at least not leaking and the car does not bounce when pushed from the top). I know it could be the strut bearing/mount - but before I get there, the endlinks route looks more promising to me.

Thanks