popping noise in rack and pinion

I am a new member and need some help. On my 2004 TACOMA 4X4 2.7 L I noticed a popping noise coming from my rack and pinion. It looks like the unit between the two plastic boots moves when i turn my wheel back and forth. How do i know if it just needs bushings or a new rack and pinion

 

Put front on jacks have bro turn it side to side while u listen to what it is...racks dont fail easily, prolly ball joint or tie rods im guessin...and check for loose/corroded hardware too!

 

My old ball joints would pop when I would first get in the truck after sitting overnight. Pop gone after new ones installed. I tried rack bushings first and didn't help.

 

No one searches anymore....


With truck on ground bump steering wheel back and forth while someone watches rack. It shouldn't move.

If it doesnt, but problem persists, I'd look at ball joints. For the putters are boots blown?

How many miles.

Ball joints can pop with wheel turning. Have someone turn wheel while you hunt around for clunk.

 

If you determine it is rack bushings, don't look for bushings from Toyota, as they don't sell them separately. They want to sell you a whole new rack.
They are available aftermarket, online, for about $17.