[Vwdiesel] tranny bearing replacement

[paul lew]

Question for you guys
A friend has a 97 gasser golf, with the main shaft bearings making some noise, but it still works good. 
As soon as you engage the clutch,any gear even neutral.
Apparently the trannys are interchangable back until 91 w/1.8 L.

He does have alot of experience with engines(including rebuilding), but not trannys

Apparently you need a special tool to get in there to remove parts.
Have any of you guys replaced a bearing?

He'd pick up a used one, but you never know what you're going to get, and he's a bit tight for cash.

Thank you
Paul