clunking noise when turning with 87 Cherokee

I have a 1987 Jeep Cherokee 4wd with a 4.0 engine and 116k miles. Whenever I turn the wheel I get a clunking/popping noise that sounds like it is coming from the divers side wheel or near the fire wall. I can also make the noise happen when the car is not moving and the wheel is turned. Any suggestion on how to determine what needs to be replaced or tightened up would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks in advance.

Daboone

My first thought is that the lug nuts on the wheel are loose; you may also have a broken stud. Check those first IMO.

My '84 Jeep makes exactly the same noise at the same time.

It's a pretty common complaint for XJ's and is usually caused by slight axle movement which causes the coil springs to shift on their axle mounts or bad ball joints.

Check the front end out for wear, including loose ball joints, tie rod ends, drag link, track bar and control arm bushings.

Those ball joints are the most important ones to check, if they have not been replaced before, they are probably worn out and a safety hazard, given the mileage on your Jeep.