I'm having similar issues also. Popping noise when making sharp turns. Squeaky and some rattling. Mines a 2004 reg cab. Was told it was the upper and lower ball joints, upper control arms, tie rod ends and sway bar end links. Shop wanted $1200 just labor.

 

yep, just get a lever and carefully test the linkage around the joins, A arms, stabilizer etc. DON'T BRAKE THEM just gently try to move them to see if there is excessive movement. best bet bring a friend who has done it before and check the rubbers for extensive cracks etc. check also for grease in case you have the grease-able ones or if the stock are shot and maybe water came in and it starts to make noise if it hit a part that does not have grease usually on pot holes or uneven asphalt.

most important raise the truck and check thinks up with a lever bar to see the condition, "AGAIN IF YOU HAVE NOT DONE IT BEFORE" bring a friend. its easy to spend on the steering parts and still have the same issues start from the ends "Tire bad thread consumpsion" and every part connecting to it.

PS: i am not a professional in any way i just like trucks :P

regards,
TIM