BTW, I don't think I mentioned it, but the PU has an auto I'm going to use (I did mention the shifter). This has the solid U-bolt flange on the back of the trans. I seem to remember reading that a 4X4 front driveshaft can be made to work in this (the PU didn't have one). I do have a local connection for doing the trans, but will have to get a driveshaft modified/made for this.
The body guy said that changing out the dash is going to be a lot of work. Better to just section in the shifter area and drill the holes for the crash pad.