great news! it was the axle ... thing.. spline or what ever. it only took 2 hours and 230 bucks.. instead of a long time and a lot of money.

so now hopefully i can make it up to the meet.

thanks everyone for helping me threw this. good call on the axle.

http://www.cardomain.com/ride/2424902 1998.5 Contour svt #5447 of 6535 B&M short Throw Shifter KKM intake borla catback (truebendz)