Front end noise

[claybank01]

I have a 1998 Explorer AWD V8 and I have a snapping and cracking noise in the front end when pulling into the garage or pulling out from a red light. As you roll forward or backwards it snaps and cracks, but only does this after the vehicle is driven. When you back out of the garage in the morning its ok. It sounds like needle bearings in a u-Joint snapping but wouldnt you think it would do it all the time? THANKS

 

[alohamonte]

Front end noise to me is more banging (sway bar endlinks), popping (ball joints), humming (hubs), and grinding (CVs).

Not sure about U joints since I haven't experience a problem with them first hand.