'98 Dakota 2WD making loud popping sounds

From : thatdamnkid

Q: i have a 98 dakota 2wd with automatic transmission. a few weeks ago it started with a rubbing sound up front. i figured it needed brakes so i took it to my usual mechanic. the next day when i picked it up he said he couldnt find anything wrong with the brakes. he drove it and couldnt hear the rubbing. i took it for an e-check that day and everything was fine. the next day it started making popping/grinding sounds coming from the front it doesnt seem to come from the wheels i think its coming from the front/center. i parked it and only tried to drive it one other time to my buddys house so he could look at it. but the popping grew so loud and violent that i turned around and went home. it feels like something is about to break. i have an appt. today with another mechanic but i am hoping to get a few ideas here before i take it in. so far ive been told it could be the universal joint the transmission or wheel bearings. have any of you heard of anything like this thanks for the help in advance andy .