The front left wheel makes a terrible grinding popping sound when I turn the wheel to the left. It also seems to be driving a little "weird", kind of "mushy" and loose. There is a boot which attatches a "rod" to the wheel?? Well the boot looks pinched and damaged. I haven't hit anything nor has the truck been off-road in weeks, and when it does hit the dirt it's driven gently. I'm unwilling to drive it and tripping! Please help!

It sounds like your CV Axle. If you hear this popping sound while in motion, and turning left, you probably have a bad CV Axle. If the popping sound is coming from the Right side, when you turn left, replace the right side CV Axle. If the sound is coming from the Left Side, replace the left side CV Axle.

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That a CV joint you're describing. That boot protects bearing from dirt getting in and grease from getting out. You don't have to hit anything, they split with age, deteriorate and sometimes actually twist on shaft and gives the appearance like you smacked something. Replace or have someone replace CV joint and boot on that wheel and you should be good to go.