2001 QC 4X4 snap sound when braking

Hi all,
Whenever I push on the brake pedal (regardless of speed), I hear and feel a SNAP coming from the front end. The vehicle stops fine and does not pull to either side. I can lightly push on the brakes and hear the snap sound, then remove my foot from the pedal, do it again and receive the same snap sound. I have removed the front brakes (which are not worn) and re-greased the back side of the pads, this seemed to help for a short while but now right back to the same old issue. I am thinking it might have something to do with the caliper spring. Any idea's or suggestions? Thanks.

not sure but I think that the pads which are on the piston side of the caliper has a spring that clips into the piston...also lube the slide end of the brake pads....this is where the pad touches the caliper guide...on either end of the pad...

I've had this problem with my 06 4x4 SLT Dakota, though it doesn't happen every time

Just so others will know, this ended up being worn front tie rod ends...once replaced, no more issues.