popping noise when i turn steering wheel

[thinmints]

ok
i have a 96 xj 4.0 4wd 216000 miles the other day when i was in line to get my rig washed i noticed a loud popping noise when i turn the steering wheel back and fourth, when i got out of the car wash it wasn't as loud as before but as the day went on it started to get loud again, i am pretty sure it is coming from the steering linkage to the steering box, has anyone had this problem before? any possible solutions

[cherokee_guy82]

I have a 94 with same problem... The ball joints are what is bad on mine, mainly because the lower ones are sealed and can not be greased... After a while without it, they become dry and rough, causing the popping noise you are hearing.

[ironman2712]

what temp is outside now when you start your car?does it happen when engine is cold?it seems to be steereng pump - first check fluid level-if les than it should be-fill up and then see what happens,,,
if that doesn't help-must be pump broken