Popping noise from steering

[mike_m]

When my 2000 4runner (4 wheel drive) is at a stop and I rotate the steering wheel back and forth about 25 degs in each direction I can feel and hear a slight "pop". I know it's coming from the rack/pinion and not the steering column. I've replace the rack pinion bushings, ITR and OTR and just replaced the steering rack guide with new style. I don't see or feel the rack moving up and down when the tires are turning. When I adjusted the steering rack guide, I tightened it as far as it would go to see if the if I could eliminate the popping noise. That didn't cure the issue, so I back off on the adjuster, made sure there was no up and down movement on the rack and left it at that. I also didn't notice any up and down or side ways movement on the pinion. Besides this minor annoyance, the wheel returns to center fine, I have no wheel vibrations when driving or any other issues. Wondering if anyone has anything else I can do/try.

Thanks

Mike M

 

[4x4runner01]

I've got the same thing happening with mine (maybe) I get a popping noise mainly when I turn and sometimes just going straight. It's only coming from the driver side though. Anyways, I couldn't figure out what it was, but then I was told my upper ball joint on my driver side is shot and needs to be replaced so I am doing that Monday and hopefully it'll fix it. I know you said it sounds like it's coming from your steering but check your upper ball joints and you might just get lucky!

 

[mike_m]

Thanks for the quick reply, my ball joints are tight. I know it's from the steering cause I jacked up vehicle, went under it and manually turned the pinion shaft and could feel and hear it. I have over 220k on the rack and pinion (no leaks) and will probably just live with it until it dies. I am taking it to an alignment shop this week, so I'll see what they have to say as well.

 

[kolelt]

Try to see if your sway bar links are tight to the lower control arm.