Flight Stick Repair

[Redbull{wings}]

I came into possession of an old M.A.C.H. 3 laser disc arcade cabinet with 1942 in it. I want to convert it to a flying MAME cabinet. It still has the original M.A.C.H. 3 flight stick, but it isn't in the best condition. Most of all the rubber piece that keeps the stick centered is very old and cracking so it is not centered. Is there a way to fix or replace this? Also many of the leaf switches have been bent out of place, can I replace these, maybe with micro switches? Lastly, when playing the joystick just feels "loose" I have tightened all the screws and I can't figure out why, maybe the rubber piece is causing this?

If it is not fixable I am willing to purchase a new one, but not for $100+ dollars as they are on Happ, do they come any cheaper?

Thanks for your help.