Steering gear overhaul Durango 99

There is excessive play in the steering gear. Tightening up adjustments help
a little, but it still remains. New (actually remanufactured) gear costs
around 300$ if I ship it from States; local dealer cost is ~700$ plus
labour. However, I can get it overhauled for about 180$ including
removal/reinstallation - much cheaper. Any experience with steering gear
overhauls - how easy it is, what is expected service life before it goes
again etc?

To rule out other steering issues I've replaced upper & lower ball joints,
tie rods, pitman arm and shocks - all of these were in need of replacement
anyway.

TIA,
Peter