What are my driveshaft options?
 

I have an 86 FC with an auto transmission. I just bought the car and it needs a new driveshaft, the u-joints are blown. I eventually want to swap the car to manual. What are my options on driveshafts that are capable? Such as, will a turbo II driveshaft fit with my automatic transmission (I'll swap the transmission eventually)?? What are ALL of my options by chance? Thank you

Rachel.

An auto driveshaft is your only option. They are shorter than manual versions, and have a pinion flange that will only mate to an NA rear end.

Depending on when you need to have the car functional, you may want to just take your time and swap to the manual transmission configuration rather than wasting your time and money on the auto transmission driveshaft.

Otherwise, here are your options for now:
- Try to find a used driveshaft from an auto transmission RX-7 and hope that it remains functional until you swap the car to manual.
- Buy a new OEM auto transmission driveshaft.
- Buy a new aftermarket auto transmission driveshaft from Mazdatrix.

You can also get replacement u-joints. However, the original driveshafts were not intended for this, and personally I would have reservations about using these products, especially if the work is not performed by a professional shop.
Staked-In U-Joints

Agree with evil... you can pull a 5 spd trans and pedal assy. pretty easily at a junk yard. Its not very hard either. Auto in a FC ... not fun. good luck!