Hi, thanx 4 the replies, i really appreciate the help...
well, i don't know what the gaitor things are, but i have checked the outer cv joint boot things, they aren't torn or anything, they look like they're in pretty good condition that's why i don't suspect the outter ones.
what i mean by too much movement in the wrong directions is that: that bearing thing that's just off the gear box, doesn't just turn round and round, it seems that it has some (too much) movement towards and away from the tire closest to it. there also seems to be a slight "oil" leak from it, and when i wiggle it around it makes a funny noise... so i suspect that (i think that's the inner cv joint?)
so any idea how much work ( not to forget money ) is involved? thanx again for any help.