Dodge Repair: 1994 dodge van wagon V8, dodge van, gas gauge

Question
hey-i recently bought a 94 dodge van that was used to drive between two scools in a very small town(engine never really warmed up). it only has 80,000 miles but was always kept outside.there is nothing major wrong but just a few things that i'd appreciate some guidance on. first, when starting it begins to crank but always takes about 10 seconds to fire. normally i'd try some new plugs but they have been changed twice before.
next is that there is major play in the steering. i suspect tie rod ends but not sure if they can be tightened or need to be replaced.
finally the gas gauge doesn't work. anything i might check before having it fixed?
i would greatly appreciate any input!  

Answer
Hello Ryan
On the gas gage check the ground on the gas tank might be broke . Check it first.

on the tie rod ends they would have to be replaced then a front end allinet and as far as starting put some dry gas in tank and change the gas filter good luck to u pete and please rate my serivice pete