Steering play... Steering gear box??

[mr_speed77]

I have some serious play in my steering. I checked the steering column right into the steering box and it is all the same stroke as when i turn the wheel. When i had someone move the wheel and look at the pitman arm it doesn't seem to move with the same stroke as the column. I can move the wheel back and forth a couple inches without the pitman arm moving. Im guessing the box needs to be replaced? Its full of power steering fluid too. Its black as can be but would changing the power steering fluid help this?

 

[metalmacguyver]

fresh fluid wont help it. you need a new box. the black fluid indicates that it is burnt. you pump might also be on its way out.