I have X52 also. I would listen to Dragon's suggestion, as I did and cured my problems.
Also, there is a cheap fix for the loose stick by inserting a homemade shim above the spring at the base. That takes a few minutes and delivers a bit tighter control for small movements.
Here is another test if you don't want to take Dragon's word. Pull up the software that came with the stick if you see the crosshair anywhere but dead center then do this. While in that screen, unplug the connector to your throttle. Then reinsert it carefully, I hate those tiny pins and round connectors (afraid I will misalign and bend them). If both connections are tight you should now see the crosshair dead center. If that didn't work try another usb port, but highly suggest that you find a powered usb hub to use.
By the way, I just built a make shift rudder pedals rig, using an old Siatek Cyborg. Even with that riggity build of mine, the rudder control is 80% better than with the twisty sticks. Not a knock on Siatek, just an observation that pedals are the way to go.
