If you do narrow it down to the driveshaft(s) a few places seem to stock GKN ones, including Island 4x4.

andyfreelandy said:

I've read that some new ones are bad for vibration. Can't find a good make.

Click to expand...

As tempting as it may be to use aftermarket shafts, don't.
Only use GKN shaft with the scalloped inner joints.

Don't you have some lower mileage shafts of one of the vehicles you've parted out?

I'm sure I've swapped shafts left to right in the past, which gives a new wearing surface in the joint.

Thanks both.
I have used the spare shafts I had repairing other vehicles!! The TD4 shaft is different to the 1.8. Also, I believe they are different lengths left and right?

I could swap the inner joint from another one I suppose or just buy the inner joint?

I'll check it out tomorrow and have a proper listen and shake. I can't see how I get vibration if there is no play but if a new one can do it then it must be an imbalance somewhere.

Solved this vibration thing at last !
As with all good problems, a bit of accidental helped the diagnosis.
I thought the vibration was from the left front wheel or defo the gearbox side.
Noticed the n/s front tyre was down, so pumped it up and made sure all pressures identical.
Vibration much improved so today changed the n/s driveshaft with another good one.
No real play in the one I took off but problem solved.
Thanks for the suggestions, the fact that the shaft had no discernible play almost made me discount it, glad I didn't.

Also replaced the 12 month old wishbones as the front bushes had already pulled away from the metal case - am in 'negotiations' with supplier with photos.