Cardan shaft for BMW gearbox swap in Toyota Supra mk4 2JZ GTE

BMW gearbox swap (such as the ZF 5-speed, GS6-53DZ 6-speed, or the DCT) into a Toyota Supra MK4 (JZA80), the “Cardan shaft” or driveshaft is a critical custom component. Since BMW transmissions use a Guibo (rubber flex disc) output flange and the Supra differential typically uses a 3-bolt or 4-bolt companion flange, you cannot use an off-the-shelf BMW or Toyota shaft.

1. Common Transmission Output Patterns

Depending on the BMW gearbox you’ve selected, the output flange will dictate the front of your new driveshaft:

Small Guibo (96mm PCD): Found on 5-speed ZF (S5D-320Z) and smaller 6-speeds.
Large Guibo (110mm or 105mm PCD): Found on the “bulletproof” GS6-53DZ (Diesel 6-speed) and DCT units.
Splined Output: Rare in swaps, but some adapters convert the Guibo flange to a traditional 1350 Series U-joint yoke.

2. Custom Driveshaft Solutions

Most high-horsepower 2JZ builds move away from the rubber Guibo entirely to prevent it from tearing under high torque ( $800\text{ Nm}+$ ).

Option	Pros	Cons
One-Piece Aluminum	Lightweight, high RPM stability, easy to source.	Requires a “slip yoke” or CV joint to allow for suspension movement.
One-Piece Carbon Fiber	Superior vibration damping, highest strength-to-weight.	Most expensive option ($1,800+).
Two-Piece Steel (OEM style)	Best for NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness); uses a center support bearing.	Heavy; more points of failure for extreme drag racing.

3. Critical Component: The Adapter Flange

To mate the BMW gearbox to a custom shaft, you will likely need a Billet Output Adapter.

Function: This replaces the BMW rubber Guibo. It bolts directly to the transmission output flange and provides a flat mounting surface for a 1310 or 1350 Series U-joint or a 108mm CV joint.
Manufacturers: Companies like PMC Motorsport, Seems Legit Garage, and Grannas Racing produce these specifically for JZ-to-BMW swaps.

4. Measurements for Ordering

Because the thickness of your Engine-to-Trans Adapter Plate (usually 20mm) and the specific engine mounts used will shift the transmission’s position, you must measure the car personally.

Measurement A: From the transmission output flange face to the differential flange face.
Differential Type: Confirm if you have the 200mm (Small) or 220mm (Large/6-speed) Supra differential, as the bolt patterns differ.