[V8] Distal Driveshaft CV Joint problem

[Gunter Lorberg]

I could benefit from some BTDT advice...
 
The CV joint just proximal to the rear differential and distal to the drive shaft on one of my cars has failed.  I've had this V8 with 150 000 for about 18 months now.  I first noticed some play in the joint over a year ago but did nothing about it as the car ran fine.  Today things started off OK but then got progressively worse as the car was being driven around town, especially under load conditions (as well as brisk deceleration).  It made some unusual chirping-like noises that I've not yet heard in any car.  At any speed above 45-50 mph the whole car began to shake to the extent that even my GF noticed it....I did not venture any faster.
 
The car hobbled home and was put up on four secure blocks for testing.  I could find nothing wrong underneath despite looking extensively except the (even greater?) remarkable play in that CV joint.....I was able to replicate some of the noises I heard after stabbing the brakes while the wheels were spinning in DRIVE.  The wheel bearings all seem to be OK.  None of the wheels felt especially warm to the touch.  Engine and transmission worked as per usual.
 
Has anyone out there ever had to change this joint?  Do I need the special driveshaft alignment tool that's in the manual to do this job?  If I loosen and remove the 6 bolts holding the joint together, will I be able to 'find' enough room to remove and replace this joint without removing other pieces of the drivetrain?
 
This car is otherwise in excellent mechanical shape....it deserves to be back on the road again.
 
 
Thanks,
 
Gunter
 
(2) 1990 Canadian V8's (both automatics)