Drive shaft is now a consumable

[Grumpy Goat]

One question after all of that ... was the shaft ever pulled and inspected / lubed before that? I'd be very surprised if it was.

After I pulled mine the first time, I vowed to pull it every 18k miles when I have to change the final drive oil. No significant rust on mine that first time and I wash often and have no issues with a pressure washer at a distance. The gaiters are not waterproof and moisture will get in the shaft housing but should dry out, especially if you go for a ride afterwards.