Fix it or drive as is

[Green K20]

When I bought my truck, I had every intent in fixing it up and making it look good again.
At the time I bought it, I knew it had loose steering, but it wasn't too bad. Then I took it mudding, it has about 4-5" play in the steering. I've heard that manual steering, 4x4 trucks got loose steering as part of normal wear and tear, but isn't this a little extreme?

Also, the entire left bedside needs to be replaced, as does the lower door skins. In doing these things, the truck will look much nicer, but I don't have the money to do that right now. I am more concerned about the steering.

Is there a cheaper way to fix the steering other than to replace the $350 manual steering gearbox? I've heard that it would be to my advantage to just convert it to power steering, but that would be even more than $350 wouldn't it?

I am just trying to see what other people think about my situation. The engine, drivetrain, and interior are the best parts. With about $800-1000, it could be made into a nice truck.