At first I thought this noise was coming from the outside, but a "springing" noise (like a spring coiling and uncoiling) is coming from the steering column inside the cab. It only happens when I turn the wheel to the right. Any ideas what it is?[&:]

 

I would have to venture that it is the rotory coupler inside the steering colum.

 

Spike...any ideas how to replace? I can live with it as long as I don't have a safety issue trying to turn. I would hate to have an emergency and not be able to turn.

Thanks!

 

I do not know if it will lock up the steering wheel or not.
You will need to remove the steering wheel in order to replace it.
If you try and do it make sure that you leave the battyer unhooked for 1 hour before starting any work so that the airbag has time to fully discharge.

 

There is also a spring assembly inside the steering wheel that is part of the air bag system, that may be what your are hearing.