[Spridgets] 5 speed question

[David Lieb]

It really is NOT that hard to install the driveshaft afterwards. I
have always done it that way and it is no big deal. A lot less hassle
than trying to thread the whole works into place as a unit.

Yes, the masking tape method serves admirably to hold the nose high
enough to slip right into place with no need for an assistant nor for
a hole under the U-joint. With a 1500, OTOH, you DO need the hole
under the U-joint!
David Lieb