I Agree with Andy G entirely.
The rack and pinion is unlikey to be the cause.
I have had a gaiter split and replaced it, cleaned, lubricated and adjusted the rack by screwing in the adjuster two flats. Doing that reduced steering wheel play to zero but no difference could be felt in drag to the steering.
When greasing the sliding pillars its best done by jacking up front end and pumping grease till it exits in sufficient quantity to expel the old stuff.
