i'm pretty sure the damage occurred when my torque converter fused tight and sent some very chronic shockwaves down the prop shaft, it made some brutal clunks and jolts and hasn't been the same since.. the transmission guy said the u-joint was stiff and would need replacing and my mechanic confirmed that recently, though whether they're assuming that or have actually seen it i'm not sure

i just spoke to my mechanic, he said even reconditioned shafts are hit and miss and that i should get the guys that sell it to fit it, as then if it doesn't go on right they will have to keep trying until it's good.. he knows them they have a couple of workshops around perth, and delivery is isn't an issue cause it's local

the guys that have the shaft told me this morning that it's around $900 to fix up mine, though yeah that involves the removal of the old one and installing the new one, which i could do with some help from a workmate who has ramps and skills but i'm not sure that's the best idea.. as my mechanic said if i get them to remove/fit and it's not perfect then they can do it again until it's right!

i'll give them a call tomorrow and ask about the cost of labour, thanks for your reply