How do I check my tie rod and drag link bushings to know if they are shot or not?

 

Mine (tie rod) makes a stress/binding sound when I turn the wheel (driver side). I had my wife turn wheel back and forth and could feel it binding in bushing/end.. I just got a new one, but have not replaced it yet.. Also, when I move it up and down (tie rod) it clanks pretty loud as if the ball is not in coupler anymore or popping out.