X5 E53 2001 3.0l 5 speed Manual - sloppy shift linkage

[shedtastic]

Hello all, I promise I have tried to search the forum (and others) for this topic - but can't seem to find anything relevant (though I am happy to be proved wrong..)

The shift linkage in our X5 has deteriorated noticeably in the last few months, has anyone refurbished theirs? I have done this job on a much older 3 series and did not enjoy it.. I assume it's the same case f needing to drop the driveshaft and the exhaust to get access? If so I might just live with it..

I'm kind of hoping someone can tell me that the more modern X5 has better clearance underneath, or a better design overall and that a sloppy inkage is most likely down to a single, easily replaced from inside the car, $5 part..

Andy advice, etc. Neil.