There's not much point in adjusting your steering box until you know that all of the ball joints/tie rods/idler bush etc are good. Your alignment shop is probably not lying to you and you've already found that the rubber steering joint is shot. This combination of wear may well mean the car isn't very safe to drive but that's your decision. The box adjustment is best left until you've sorted out the other problems. If you can get the front end off the ground with axle stands under each of the lower A arms you'll be able to check all of the joints. Don't forget the lower/outer ball joint on each side. They can be difficult to check but can have a lot of play. When all of the jobs are done, get it back on the stands and adjust the box to give the minimum amount of play at the wheel without any increase in stiffness. Tightening and loosening will give you a feel for it. Expect to have about 1 1/2" play each side of centre. Don't try and get rid of this using the adjustment screw.
Work safe!
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