Popping noises from front end **NOW WITH PICS & VIDEO***

[badmix]

Sure, If they move easily and wont hold grease, I would replace them.
How are the ball joints?

I dont think the sounds are that of the main ball joints, but how could I tell for sure?

 

[Chaddy]

I dont think the sounds are that of the main ball joints, but how could I tell for sure?

To check the balljoints---- Jack up the axle, and if the tires falls to the side instead of staying strait, then they are most likely shot. While its up in the air, grab the tire and wiggle the crap out of it, and check for movement in the ball joints. If the ball joints are solid, and the tire still wiggles, then the hubs are shot.

 

[MWjr]

To check your tie rod and drag link ends, use a pair of pliers to squeeze to joint. Your looking to see if there is play inside the joint between the ball and housing. You may also want to look at the rivets in the frame around the steering box. I found the rivets that hold the engine cross member had loosened up in my old '79. I replaced them with bolts instead. It had 4" lift, raised steering arm with push pull steering and 38's.

 

[badmix]

To check the balljoints---- Jack up the axle, and if the tires falls to the side instead of staying strait, then they are most likely shot. While its up in the air, grab the tire and wiggle the crap out of it, and check for movement in the ball joints. If the ball joints are solid, and the tire still wiggles, then the hubs are shot.

I already did this to check to make sure I didnt have any bearing issues. etc. When I jacked up truck.I grabbed top and bottom of tire and tried to move it and did the same side to side and got no movement. I spun the tire and it spun freely. So looks like im good there.

Ill replace the drag link and tie rod ends, tighten up Ubolt nuts and see how we do.

Thanks everyone.

 

[Chaddy]

I would STILL check CLOSELY for cracks around the steering box holes.
The reason I keep saying this, is because I had a pop I couldnt find untill I noticed on the inside of the frame, there was a couple TINY hairline cracks around the bolts.