After following this thread and and doing more research the plan is to install a T-5 from a mid-80's S-10. Mechanical speedo, minor modifications to the drive shaft, and all the advantages of an overdrive. Slightly more expensive than the diff mod but it seems like a lot more bang for the buck.

I'll probably be back for help with the install when the time comes.
Thanks for the counsel!


A VW guy trying his hand at a '59 LB fs. Lots to learn, but it's about the journey.