I have a 93 jeep grand cherokee laredo with almost 200,000 miles and recently been hearing a whining, and clicking and popping sound when im turning my wheels. could it be the cv joints or maybe possibly the 4wd? it is a 4.0 with allwd. any incite would be apreciated thanks
If the boots on the c/v joints are intact, chances are they are good. Whining noises are generally associated with pump for the power steering. Likely if it's the original it is worn internally. Clicking and popping can be caused by a binding steering or suspension component. These may be separate issues or may be working in tandem to give the symptoms you posted. If the pump is worn and you have a binding condition, it may be difficult for the pump to produce sufficient pressure to overcome that so therefore it will whine. Make sure that the pump is full and the fluid is in good condition. Pumps generally wear out long before they actually have anything break inside but it can happen though so if you isolate the other noises aside from whining to the pump, change it.
Check all moving front end components for signs of binding, rust or excessive play. Pay special attention to the lower ball joints...they bear the most weight and pressure of all the front end parts yet by poor design have no provision for lube service. To check ball joints, place a jack under the axle and once you have some ground clearance put a bar under the tire and attempt to lift it while watching the joints. A small amount of play is normal but it should not be excessive. Also move the wheel assembly from side to side watching the joints and other linkage joints. Do that on both sides.
You should also watch the linkage and bushings while someone turns the steering wheel back and forth while running (in park) on the ground. Again, you are looking for any play (shifting) of bushings and linkage ends. Pay attention to the mount points on the steering box as well when doing that. If the mount bolts are loose or the chassis has split the box will move and make noise.
Though it's impossible to tell you what is causing your problem without the benefit of being there and looking at it, I have given you the best way to find it.
Bottom line is you need to look carefully to find the problem.
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