Up/Down & Twist Play in Long Driveshaft

[Alibireason]

I inspected my 98 4x4 Pathfinder a bit ago and noticed that the long driveshaft (front end of shaft...pic is looking towards front) has play up and down and when turning it. No right/left play. The U joints don't seem to have play but the entire shaft does...where it connects. The rear end of the shaft has no play. I do hear a whirring sound when I drive that changes pitch with speed. Could this be the cause?

My ? is could an amateur DIYer replace the whole shaft without too much room for error if it needs to be replaced?

[mdmellott]

I inspected my 98 4x4 Pathfinder a bit ago and noticed that the long driveshaft (front end of shaft...pic is looking towards front) has play up and down and when turning it. No right/left play. The U joints don't seem to have play but the entire shaft does...where it connects. The rear end of the shaft has no play. I do hear a whirring sound when I drive that changes pitch with speed. Could this be the cause?

My ? is could an amateur DIYer replace the whole shaft without too much room for error if it needs to be replaced?

The drive shaft is not the problem. If you are lucky, it's just a bod u-joint.

[Alibireason]

Ok thank you! I found a differential shop in town that says they give a free no obligation diagnosis/estimate. I plan on visiting them soon.

After some research, I noticed there is no clunking when shifting into drive and reverse, and I also put a cup of coffee in the cup holder and noticed no vibration at various speeds. I will use the info you have given me for the estimate and update at that time. Thank you!