I have a 1999 Dakota 4x4. Recently I've noticed a creaking and popping noise coming from the front end during tight, low speed turns. Checked the front end last night by jacking it up on the lower control arm and both wheels are tight.
From what I've read about so far on the forum it could be narrowed down to a wheel bearing or CV axle. So today I spun the wheels with the truck lifted on the lower control arms again, and I hear a quieter version of the loud popping/creaking I've been hearing, but on both wheels.

Do CV axles and/or wheel bearings wear out in pairs? They look relitively easy to change but are expensive. Am I missing any components that could be making a popping noise during turning? Is my front diff going out??
thanks for any input
I've done some front end work on cars, nothing 4x4

 

Check fluid in the front diff.

Are all the boots on the axles still in good shape?