Dude, you need to go find Landpimp (
http://forum.ih8mud.com/members/landpimp.html) (he also lives in Gig Harbor) and have him shop with you. First time I met him he pointed out stuff that was wrong on our 62 that I hadn't even thought of!
Transmissions are very stout (depending on PO maintenance) and can be trusted. Watch though for a clunk from Drive to reverse (or opposite). If it clunks too bad, you may need to click the McNamara gear install link in my signature.