2011 TACOMA TRD STEERING PROBLEMS,MANUAL TRANSMISSION,87000 MILES,MOSTLY STOCK

First,thank you to all members with their very helpful replies to my last post.I thought I had all problems licked but near the end of a 135 mile trip I felt a "sticking" spot in the steering.Never had or noticed before.I don't like half measures so I want a Permanent fix.Is this dangerous?I always have major work done at Rogers Toyota Hermiston,OR.Any ideas on what the problem is,is it common,what is the fix,what part(s) required & about how much the repairs would cost are most welcome.I'm not much of a mechanic so this old bird (76) needs some tips.Thank you.MIKE

 

This is an indication of the lower intermediate shaft universal joint starting to go.

It can be dangerous as if it disconnects you will have no steering ability.

https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/steering-heavy-then-light-while-turning.733325/#post-26116149

Look at the intermediate steering shaft universal joint. I'll bet it is very rusty and crusty.

It can be viewed in the drivers wheel well. Look at the universal joint.

 

Yup. What he said

 

Now my 2015 steering was stiff last summer and tried to work some oil into the lower universal . I noticed it is a lot easier this winter. Did it shrink enough in the cold to cause it not to bind. I would like to put one in that is greasable I think I might have to install the grease fittings myself.I could but the Kawaski one and put it on my old shaft. Thoughts??