The steering damper is not a factor in the two problems that you mentioned. Did you check your power steering fluid level? Low fluid will cause the noise that you described. The pulling to the right is likely an alignment problem. Could be wheel bearings or other front end components.

At 89k miles, you would be safe to replace the steering damper on principle. To be sure, you could disconnect one end of the damper and check it for resistance when actuated. The damper prevents the steering wheel from reacting suddenly to road irregularities, such a potholes.