[Vwdiesel] Rabbit halfshaft questions

[David Ross]

   I am in the midst of engine & transmission swap, moving an '82 Rabbit 
engine & 5-speed into an '84 Rabbit.  Seems straightforward, but...

   Are the halfshafts the same in the '82 Rabbit (5-speed) and the '84 
Rabbit (4-speed)?

   What are 'rebuilt' halfshafts?  What parts are replaced?  Is any 
machining involved in the rebuild?

   Should I just replace seals & boots and regrease everything and run 
with the old halfshafts?

   Should I replace the final drive seals?  No leaks yet, but maybe I 
should do it while the transmission is on the bench...

   What should I pay for a pair of rebuilt halfshafts?

   Where is a good place to buy rebuilt halfshafts?  I live in SW WA.

   Does anyone know of any particular gotchas in this engine/trans swap?

   What sort of new & different stuff will I need to get the '82 5-speed 
to fit in the '84 Rabbit (originally a 4-speed)?  New shift linkage parts?

many thanks
Dave Ross    N7EPI