Steering bind/pop
 

I've got crossover power steering on my 85 4 runner, and during a wheeling trip yesterday, a problem with the steering showed up.

All of the mechanical linkages in the steering system are good and tight, no pump noise, no leaks. Truck steers great and get no odd issues while driving.

However, up near the steering wheel, when turning the steering wheel, it binds and pops. I've seen the U joint that sits a few inches away from the steering wheel, but it is tight. I've tried to get some movement out of the steering shaft under the hood, but get no movement and it seems tight. The noise and binding seems to be coming from the area where the shaft runs through the shield as it passes through the firewall, but obviously I cant see what is going on there.

Anyone have this issue or know more in detail what is going on between the steering wheel and firewall?

Thanks

Wasn't this posted the other day??