Thanks for all the replies guys much appreciated...yea went to strathfield and the dude said that its more likely that the mast (i think that how its spelt) is stuffed and needs replacing cause i can still hear the motor running, no need to replace the whole unit. So if i could find a replacement aftermarket one would be great...might check out the Nissan Patrol ones (thanks GWPO21 for mentioning that) or off to the wrecker i'll go.
Now to pull out the old one out, will try and follow R33-GTS instructions, but do i need to remove any panels? Can i visibly see all the parts when i'm pulling it out?
Thanks again