Steering box slop

I have been driving my 67 around for the past couple of months since I got it all back on the road and I didn't spend any time and or money on the steering box (I had plans to put either a borgeson or a rack under it) But my funds have dwindled as they tend to do and I have a good bit of slack in my steering wheel (maybe more). I know that tightening up the mesh on the steering box can help this out, but I also know if you don't adjust that sucker right you can bind the mesh and snap the worm gear. Any advice? Leave it alone? Maybe just tighten on it until I have just a little bit of slack? I Really don't want to spend any money because I am trying to save up to do the steering conversion. (also some of this slack im certain is in the idlers, but I know the box has a significant amount of play in it as well). The rod ends feel tight, I think the PO replaced them not too long ago.
Any help is appreciated..

And PS. to those of yall that read my carburetor tuning issue....it was 90% timing, my dumb-a$$ forgot that I had loosened the distributor to remove my water neck and forgot to set it with a light afterward...runs like a champ now.

No rag joint, got one of those good old 67's that will stab you in the event of a head on collision. I have had my wrench on the nut to give it a little adjustment, but just wanted to ask some folks first. Thanks

I think before going through a new box and links and whatnot I will probably just convert it to borgeson or a rack (still don't know which one I want to do) But i have that job tied into the t-5 swap I have planned, heck i might put it all off until i can put a hotter engine in it, the 289 is peppy, but will barely make 1 tire fire....but i sure do love it when EVERY time i bump that starter she purrs like a kitten.