Loose steering

You can turn the steering wheel a couple of inches either way and the tires have not moved. I have tried adjusting the steering box with the nut on top and it helped a little. The rag joint in the steering shaft looks good, Both halves of the steering shaft turn together, the tire wear looks normal. This car had a variable power steering that has been bypassed by a previous owner. The alignment is fine. It is just that play in the wheel whether you are standing still or driving, you have to keep moving the wheel back-and-forth to keep on the road straight. I am about to change the steering box, any other suggestions?