Typically other things would have more affect on the steering tightness....
like the tie rod ends, wheel bearings not set correctly, toe in incorrect......and looseness in steering box...

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1980 240d ,

chain elongation, cam marks reference:
http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/10414-help-i-need-check-stretch.html

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/305365-9-degrees-chain-stretch.html

evap fin cleaning:

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/156207-photo-step-step-post-showing-w123-evaporator-removal-1983-240d-1982-300td.html?highlight=evaporator

A/C thread

http://www.peachparts.com/shopforum/diesel-discussion/297462-c-recommendations-mb-vehicles.html

The steering's been loose since I got it, I'm just saying I didn't notice any change in alignment and that could have been because my steering is so loose.

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1983 240D 3.0T 4-speed manual, now sold

1989 Subaru GL Wagon 5-speed Touring Edition

I'm in general agreement with this conclusion.

When the ball joint wears, it has additional vertical motion........more than desired. However, the natural position of the ball is at the bottom of this clearance, and the clearance is only noted when the joint is fully unloaded against the weight of the body.

Accordingly, the alignment should not change when the ball joint is replaced, unless the joint is worn to the point where there is serious radial wear in the socket........in which case, the ball joint is literally falling out of the spindle.