I have been chasing a grinding noise in my driveline. Pulled front driveshaft, still grinds in 2wd when I hit bumps and 4hi when accelerating or bumps.

Pulled rear driveshaft today, slip yolk was stiff, pulled off hard. Noticed output shaft moves in and out almost 1" and I can visibly see where the metal guard on the output shaft has been rubbing the case. I have to assume this movement is excessive and this is the origin of my noise?

Being a 2000 with an auto the input shaft is the long version, correct? I thought the short input is for a manual?

Thanks, kurt

Correct, the output shaft should not move in and out.
Not sure if that is just bearing related or if you would have to replace more internal parts.