An argument can be made for the new shafts causing or not causing the problem, but if neither wheel turns in drive there is something wrong in the transmission. First be sure both inner cv joints are fully seated in the transmission housing. If they are not, there should be a grinding noise in reverse AND in drive, but check that anyway.
One somewhat common problem is a broken small bolt in the differential part of the transmission that allows a larger pin to fall out of position. That larger pin will eventually back out far enough to catch on the housing and can break the housing. The wheels should still turn both ways until that pin hangs up.
If the rattling noise was there before you replaced the half shafts, there is something broken in the transmission. A transmission specialist should be able to give you a better idea on the best way to proceed.
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Thursday, April 7th, 2011 AT 3:43 AM