defaulted on loans....is it too late to consolidate??

i have about $40k in student loans with sallie mae(which reading other blogs seems like chump change). i am not in a position to make my $400+ monthly payments. since these loans are already in default, is it too late to consolidate and try to get a lower monthly payment?? or do i have to bring them current first?? is sallie mae the best lender to consolidate student loans??