Ranchero Drive Shaft Question

[KYBlueOval]

When I bought my Ranchero, It came without a drive shaft.  Rancheros, Wagons and Sedan Deliveries all being the same in terms of the frame, then the drive shaft is the same as well, based on the transmission of course. My research tells me that the 3  Edsel Wagons Models, were all based on the Ford Wagon Frame, thus can I assume ( dangerous word I know ) that a drive shaft from a '59 Automatic Edsel Wagon, will work in my '57 Ranchero?
Thanks
John

[hiball3985]

My Ranchero had a tapered drive shaft and Mechanics type U joint that attaches with bolts. I don't know if a 59 Edsel has the same type, something to check besides length.

[KYBlueOval]

Thanks for the info.
John

[RICH MUISE]

Hey John...As far as I know, any short wheelbased model should work..which means all the Customs as well. If I had known, I could have brought you one in Fort Worth.
I don't know if the manual trans' driveshaft is the same as an Automatic's. Mine is a manual.
Lost track of your plans...have you decided on a drivetrain yet?

[SkylinerRon]

Rancheros, Wgns, SD's & Customs used a 54 35/64" long (center to center u-joint distance) shaft.
6 cyl thru 292 used smaller u-joints than 312 equipped cars.
312's use a Spicer 1260 u-joint.
T-85/R11 cars used a shorter shaft.

Ron.

[KYBlueOval]

Hey John...As far as I know, any short wheelbased model should work..which means all the Customs as well. If I had known, I could have brought you one in Fort Worth.
I don't know if the manual trans' driveshaft is the same as an Automatic's. Mine is a manual.
Lost track of your plans...have you decided on a drivetrain yet?

Thanks for the reply Rich. As to the drive train.......have not finalized, but close.

[KYBlueOval]

Rancheros, Wgns, SD's & Customs used a 54 35/64" long (center to center u-joint distance) shaft.
6 cyl thru 292 used smaller u-joints than 312 equipped cars.
312's use a Spicer 1260 u-joint.
T-85/R11 cars used a shorter shaft.

Ron.

Ron, I really appreciate your help. Thank you.
John

[SkylinerRon]

Your welcome!
Glad to help.

Ron.