lol, yes I have seen two, can't remember if they were 35 or 37 but my point is it does happen. But yes most people on road would not need the 105 shaft but it is a weak link in the steering system for this specific model 4x4.
I don't see how a bent steering column could have anything to do with the issues you are describing. Like I said, my bet is on the box being rebuilt wrong. Happens all the time.
My bet is on a bad rebuilt box. Did you get it from a abc local parts store? It is not uncommon to have bad rebuilt units right out of the box. Sent it to red head steering and get it properly rebuilt. If the pump is a rebuilt part store one buy a new toyota one.