Popping noise after new frame and leveling kit.

Mystery steering issue after I got my 2011 Tacoma back from the dealership with a new frame and a 3" leveling kit.

At low speeds, or when stopped, if I turn my wheels right. When I'm approaching the end of the travel I feel a little binding then it pops and travels freely again. I haven't noticed this when turning it left.

Any ideas?

 

Steering shaft joint

 

Steering shaft joint is a good possibility . I dont beleive this is replaced with a fresh frame .
https://www.tacomaworld.com/threads/tacoma-2005-2015-intermediate-steering-shaft-replacement.541884/

Rack and pinion may need to be tightened at the bushings

 

Thanks, I took a look at the steering shaft u-joint. Seems in good condition. Any idea what type of lubrication is appropriate? Will plain old lithium grease do in the short term. I won't be able to dig into this problem until it warms up here in VT. No indoor space to work on the rig and it's beens frosty up here. Haha.

 

There is no grease zerk on that steering joint , so what ever you can you use to penetrate the joint will help .

 

Also, try spreading a layer of grease on your steering stop ears. Had that happen to mine. Turns out the knuckle was binding at the steering stops on the lower control arms. if you look at them, you might see some bare or shiny metal(sign of contact). Hope that helps.

 

Honestly, this seems more likely. They replaced the lower control arms when they did my frame. I'll have a look in the morning. Thank you!

 

WD40 or better on the joint soak it well