Ive done a search but to many mixed answers.

My 1997 VS Manual Ute has today started shuddering in high 4th gear and in 5th gear usually around 80km+. Scared the crap out of me and it felt like it was about to fall apart. Never done anything like this before, its always been a pretty smooth drive although the last few days ive heard the rare odd noise.

A few things i have already checked is the wheels are good, gearbox and diff have fairly new oil, engine mounts are recently replaces, steering and suspension bushes, springs and shocks are all good. the only thing i found that could be an issue is the tail shaft has about a 3-5mm play when trying to rock it dont know if thats normal or not.

any help is appreciated