Freelander Prop shafs

Just bought a 2001 freelander 1.8 ES.  Unfortunately it broke down on the way home from the garage when it started making an horendous transmission noise.  The garage are covering the repair, which they say is a prop shaft bearing but is this a common fault?  It's only done 52k and I suspect that it's had very little, if any off road use.  Also I have been told that if I am not intending to do any off road work, then I should remove the prop shaft to the rear wheels altogether and save myself at least 10 mpg.  Is this a viable option?

Hi Brookdale31.
Propshaft problems are quite common on the Freelanders.If you are not using the vehicle offroad,I would strongly suggest you remove the propshaft and wrap it in plastic and store it somewhere.Not only are you saving an expensive propshaft,your fuelconsumption should improve.You also save your rear differential and its mountings,your rear tyres and your IRD(transferbox).Your car will be more responsive on acceleration,and steer much easier.It takes about 10 minutes to remove,but will save you a lot of money.
Regards
Marius.