A quick update. I've tried various different uj positions but none that I've tried so far has improved my steering much. I've removed the two shafts completely and am currently cleaning up the bottom joint which is covered in underseal and not as free as it should be.
Moving the steering rack manually provides a fair degree of resistance and noise, this could be my rebound springs which I noticed previously don't turn by hand when the car is on the ground as I believe they should.
Further investigation is required I feel.
