If the ball joints are the problem and you decide to replace them, be sure you buy German-made replacements. They cost a little more, but are wel worth it.
The VW aftermarket is inundated with Brazilian-made junk as you found out when you bought the new adjustable beam.
I had a set of German-made Type 1 (Beetle) ball joints and just sold them last month to a co-worker who’s restoring a Kharman-Ghia.
I also had an NOS German Type 1 steering box, and sold that to him too. I am not sure if new German-made steering boxes are still available.
Let us know what happens.