Bushings out on the end of the sector make a big difference in side to side movement. If the sector moves side to side before rotating, all the input from the steering wheel to take up said movement is wasted.

I would rebuild it and see what you get. If the bearings are in good shape, you can get replacement bushings pretty cheap at a local bearing and bushing dealer if there is one in your town. They are common sized bushings and the seal can be had from NAPA or other local parts house. Worm gear bearings are not easy to get local, I had to go through one of the parts venders listed in the links above.

Seal, https://www.napaonline.com/napa/en/p/NOS11055/NOS11055_0439393417

Manual,
https://www.flickr.com/photos/advance-design_parts_co/sets/72157632210242370/