Clunking sounds

Not sure what the real name is, former boss called them kingpins. They're part of the steering linkage and the clunking is an indication of them wearing out. I think if they only make noise when you have the wheel turned as far as it will go, they'll probably still last quite a while so it's not like they're going to fall off just yet. At least I've never had one fall off.

 

I think your wheels will do things independent of you and each other until many loud crunching sounds bring you to a sudden and very uncomfortable stop. I'm not a mechanic so I just have a rough idea of what they are. I have driven trucks that clunked and popped like that for many thousands of miles without anything letting go.

 

I think you are refering to the tie rod ends. Kingpins are not part of the steering linkage and would never fall off.

When you hear the clunk can you feel it in the steering wheel?

 

A steering component making a clunk would probably give you feedback in the wheel.
I don't know about your KW but I do know that lots of Volvos have a clunk in the leaf springs when turning a corner. I don't know exactly what causes it but I was told by several mechanics "oh, they all do that, don't worry about it".

Is this something new that's never happened before?

 

check your steering box & make sure it's tightly bolted to the frame. while your there grab your steering shaft if you haven't already, and wiggle it to the left & right like you were driving & see if you can see anything or hear anything.

 

I think you're hearing the front springs sliding side to side hitting the shackles. I also have a 2008 Pete which has non greaseable pins and bushings in the front springs and my springs don't move side to side. If your truck is equipped the same the bushings may need to be replaced to stop the movement.