I didn't use a transmission crossmember on my '50 1/2 ton. I have read that anchoring the engine/transmission at more than 2 points (front and rear engine mounts on an inline six) can lead to undue stress to the transmission. It has been described as similar to breaking a tree limb using 2 hands with your knee in the middle.
As far as your transmission woes, I would start combing the junkyards for another T-5. The ones behind a 4 cylinder in an S10 are plenty strong enough for your application, and the 1 through 5 gears are spaced real nice for the inline six. I could not be happier with mine. Lugnutz was my mentor as well.
Carl
Last edited by 52Carl; 02/13/2016 2:23 AM.
