So, big update to this thread. I bought a redhead unit and installed it in december/january. Out of the box it had about 2" of play measured from the steering wheel. Within 2 months it started leaking and the play got worse.
Called up their warranty department and they sent out a new one. I asked them to thuroughly double check the new one, which they said they do for all warranty claims. They were super nice over the phone and everything worked out well. New steering box is about a month and a half old now, hasn't developed any noticable play and doesn't seem to be leaking.
Overall a bit frustrating but my truck drives good now, though I don't know if I can trust it long term. I am hopeful that this one lasts, will update later on. I understand defects happen, though I seem to be one of many that has had to warranty one of their boxes in the past few years. This post isn't to bash them, its just to share my experience. Huge respect to them for standing behind their products.
Tldr: The first box was defective. Their customer service is excellent and they honored their warranty. The warranty replacement box so far is good.