Step 5. The Driveshaft (Prop Shaft)
Not just any driveshaft should go behind your big block. If you are searching the wrecking yard, make sure the driveshaft fit into the following list:
No showing major corrosion
Is from a 727 vehicle (you will need the front yoke) and has the proper size U-joint
Does not show signs of dents or bends
One point to note. You can use a driveshaft from a pickup but the tube is so large in size that it will interfer with many aftermarket driveshaft safety hoops. Use this only if you do not plan on running slicks or running faster than 14.00 seconds at the dragstrip. For that you must have a driveshaft safety hoop.
Select a driveshaft that doesn't have a taper at the rear. The reason is that the driveshaft shop will be able to reuse the u-joint mount and reweld it in the new location. If the driveshaft had a taper at the new location there is the possibility that you will have to replace this piece and could double the cost of the job. Always have new u-joints installed and have the shaft balanced. Use only a reputable shop because broken driveshafts cause a big and expensive mess.
You will need to measure the length because of the unique aspect of this swap, many people will have many different combinations. Just make sure that you allow for about a 1/2 to an inch of plan on the transmission slip yoke. Remember that it must move as the rear axle assembly travels.
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