Why does the steering have free play in it?

Wesley Merrritt inspect your steering components. First you want to check the steering rod from steering wheel from the firewall to the steering gear. Make sure it looks okay and shows no damage. Then with somebody moving the steering wheel left and right see if those movements follow on the steering gear to the components of the steering. Check the idler arm for excessive wear. Ultimately, that much play leads me to believe its a worn steering box. Again, check all components for wear. Let us know what you find and post some pictures if you get stuck with something