Play in steering column

[Camatruder]

If i grab the steering shaft in the engine bay close to the firewall (thus above the rag joint) in one hand and the steering wheel in the other, I can feel a fair amount of rotational play. I can not understand how that is possible. There is no play between the steering wheel and the splined shaft because it is pressed on and the rest is imo only a shaft that sits in a housing hold in place by bearings. I can see how these bearings can go bad in such a bay that the column can be wiggled up and down and maybe in and out but I can not see how these bearings can cause directional play.
Any input is highly appreciated.

 

[RetroC10Sport]

I've seen those bearings at the end of the column go bad like that.

 

[Camatruder]

It indeed feels like the play is at the end of the column. Can it be changed from within the engine bay without removing the column from the truck ?

 

[RetroC10Sport]

After removing the lower shaft, yes.

 

[Camatruder]

I finally got around to doing this job. What a difference in handling!
I did not find the part in the Chevrolet-section of online autoparts stores, but in de Jeep-section they were plenty. I bought Crown part number CWA-4487696K and changing it is real easy. I read that i had to unbolt the steering gear box so i did but i think i could have done without removing it. I think it's possible to push the shaft inwards enough to clear at the rag joint/steering box.