Steering Gear Problem, PLEASE HELP

[2001GTPEWTER]

I posted this earlier but obviosly nobody had an answer. Just in case theres' someone else that can close their eyes and see the steering gear in the 2001 GT Mustang in their head...I recently replaced the outer tie rods on the car after I had 10.5 tires on the front of the car (which was a mistake), now I have 9" tires but I'm still getting a ratcheting sound when I turn, especially when the car is not moving. I parked the car earlier and found that I can leave the wheel slightly turned but the wheels are sitting straight. I think that the problem may be up inside the steering column because the tie rods did not get rid of the noise or slight pulsation and very noticeable popping sound, particularly when I turn with the clutch depressed. I don't wanna take the car to Ford to have them pull it apart and charge me $3,000 without fixing anything, if anyone has any ideas as to why I'm having this steering problem please let me know. Thanks