I have a vibration (thumping) when i start out right between the seats and it goes away once I'm in 3rd gear. From talking to people it seams that it is probably the center bearing on the drive shaft. Can I asumme this is it and buy the bearing , which is only 88 dollars and have my own mechenic install , which he can and save a bundle over the dealer cost to install 400 to 500 at dealer.

Eurasion has the bearing for $49. It is possible the u-joints are also worn, so you might need to replace the whole drive shaft. While you have the drive shaft off you should replace the rear tranny mounts as they are about $10 (there are 2) and not much labor to change.