I know it is a common issue for most rams but its hard to drive on the highway due to my steering play. If anyone has figured out the best way, and actually works, to solve this that would be appreciated thanks

 

First thing to do is inspect the entire steering system, from the steering wheel, out to the tires. Having a friend help makes this a LOT easier.

 

The "rock solid steering fix" and adjusting the steering box did wonders for mine. Like HeyYou said, figure where the problem is first.

 

The rock solid fix was amazing!

 

Fixed my steering/death wobble issues by rebuilding the front end and using quality parts. Replaced the steering box with a Borgeson unit helped a lot, in addition to replacing the tires.

Don't forget that these 2nd gen trucks now have some real age on them and the condition of the roads in many areas beat front suspension parts to death.

 

May want to be more specific as to what you drive 4X4 or 4X2. Ball joints are usually the first to go on both.

 

I did the "rock solid" fix, changed a worn out steering shaft, changed out my tie rods because the joints were wore out pretty bad. I also replaced the steering gear.

I used all autozone parts except the steering shaft and rock solid of course.(Budget)

I will say changing out all the parts really helped. The only issue I have left is the steering gear ratio I think. Its a really "loose feeling" steer now, but not loose in parts or gears. Thats just how this gear is I guess. It floats on the highway a lot, wish I could fix that. I never touched the gear adjustment **** on top as I don't know if that would really help.

I have a 97 1500 4x2 with IFS. It sits on some really heavy 22" rims too. 305x45R22

 

X2 for the rock solid!

 

1 Grab the steering shaft where it comes out of the cab, forcefully push and pull sideways. The Rock Solid thing fixes this, if it's loose.
2 The track bar where it attaches to the frame. Start the truck and turn the wheel back and forth while someone watches for movement.
3 The drag link and tie rod ends (steering linkage). Same as #2
4 The ball joints. Just raising the tire with a jack may show movement. Sometimes a prybar is needed.
5 The wheel bearings. Jack up and forcefully push and pull at the top and bottom of the tire, or get a prybar under the tire. The brakes can stop some of the movement. If you aren't sure, remove the calipers and recheck.
6 The steering box. How far does the steering shaft turn before the output shaft moves? Also check for side to side movement on the output shaft.
7 The joints in the steering shaft.

Somebody correct this if there is a better method or I missed something. Check axleshaft u-joints if it's a 4x4

 

Outstanding advice! ^^