Tilt column rebuild maybe?

I've got two column shift tilt columns. I noticed after installing the 1st one it has a little side to side play in the top of shaft. I hadn't noticed it before installing it but then again I wasn't looking for it. I don't remember how many miles were on the car it came out of. So I'm looking at the other column and it too has a little play but I think less than the 1st one so I tore it down today and repainted it to match and I'm going to use it. I'm wondering if this is normal in tilt column or if I need new bearings. Any one have any experience with this? I wanted to inspect them so I took the snap ring out and expected the bearing would slip out but they don't. I see 2 notches that I could try to pry the race out with but I was a bit worried about damaging them. Back in the 80's and early 90's I rebuilt a lot of columns  for work. Theft recoveries but never did a ford like these. Always GMs and Chryslers and newer fords like escorts and mustangs. I'm betting these were never stolen too much the column is built like a tank.