Bushing front end driver side

97 ford ranger, 79000 miles, 4.0L engine

my mechanic told me I need a bushing replaced on the front driver side. He said if I dont do it soon I will need to replace part of the frame in the front. I hear noise sometimes when I turn the wheel (somewhere between a clunking and a grinding sound.) Which might be related.

any help on the exact name of the part would be wonderful. I called the ford dealership and they had no idea!

thanks much!