[MaSnaka]

Twood,
From what I understand about your new configuration, the coupler connecting the input shaft to the first section of shaft will be supporting all the weight from the entire assembly. I would suggest you install a pad block midway that supports and stabilizes your assembly. I did without too much difficulty, no welding, and I am very pleased with the results and added stability it provides. I used a u-joint to connect the input to the first section giving me a total of 3 u-joints. Without the pad block the whole thing just flopped down. I was shocked at how much weight the original set up was supporting at the coupler.

John