i have no problem helping out a fellow louisiana boy. i have just purchase my snort system and i am having trouble with it.yes you must make the drive shaft for the gato but it is pretty easy.did you get the dvd instruction set with it.if not i can mail you mine i have all but disc five as my grandson thought it was a frisbee.lol.yes i prefer the dog bones i can install my s/d in about 30 seconds.the sub driver comes with all internal linkage rod you just need 1/16 brass for external use.