1997 Jeep, has lots of play in the front steering when driving it wanders side to side and there is a lot of play in the steering,
I checked the linkage and although it has play in the shaft, the tires seem to wander more than that when driving I don't think the linkage is the entire problem,
I don't know that much; but there is a Steering box, a Steering Shock and a bar that goes across the entire front,
All items are stock, 4cyl, and original, the shock in the steering seems to be covered in oil and leaking,
I don't know where to start; but the leaking shock seems like a good spot??
When I drive it seems to wander all over lef and right, rut to rut,

Does anyone know how to fix this??

Thanx in advance,

 

Sounds like you're due to redo the front end steering components.
You can check for excessive play and wear at the
-tie rods
-ball joints
-drag link
also check if the oil is coming from the shock or the steering box or hoses
If the parts are original,chances are it's past due.

 

What you're describing won't be the steering damper. That was engineered to deal with the bump steer. I'm betting the rod ends on the drag link are shot. Best way to check is jack the front up and try turning one of your tires left and right by hand and note where the play is coming from.