Paul - Sorry to hear that the transmission does not fit properly. It's too bad there was not any concrete information on the automatics available beforehand, but, as Overland has shown, fabricating a crossmember is not beyond the abilities of the home mechanic. Basic metalworking tools are not terribly expensive, so it could be something you tackle as part of the project yourself.

These jobs are a lot of work, make no mistake. I've been working on mine for almost 3 years now, and I'm still not finished! I need some free time to finish the hood and a few little things before it's ready for the road. Remember to take it one stage at a time and always be ready to walk away when you get frustrated.

I usually set goals based on vehicle systems - I'd decide to tackle the clutch hydraulics, for instance, and just focus on that for a while, not worrying about the rest of the project. It will be completed with this attitude, sooner or later.

And, you always have the forum available for help and advice. It's been an invaluable resource for me, and I think it will be for you, too.