Definitely a 'them' problem but the guy happens to be a family member. a good guy. He already tried getting a replacement but it was too big, he said. so here we are lol. Thanks for explaining the numbers, I see how to read them now.
Hey Dirtyjeep, if I can't source one locally, I'll DM you. We might be able to come to an agreement. Gogmorgo, above, mentioned a length difference between the Dana44 and the Dana 35, do you know which one you have? Because of work and a trip after, I'll be out for a few weeks, I'll hit you up later.
Allota good info you guys are giving me. I'll see into Adam's or Denny's driveshaft but those look so well built it might be over kill. you guys put mud tires on yours ours will only ever move a couch, at best lol, but still an option. thanks y'all.