The original mini shaft had a slip joint so I figure that would be best. I thought about changing the differential gears, but they are in good original shape and it is difficult to find replacements. Yes, the front and the rear are the same. I really don't know what kind of axle the NAPCO is based on but it is a military design with the steering tie bar behind the axle and it has a round pumpkin. They look really cool. I could go with a married transfer case, but the divorced is what makes these old trucks so cool and rare. Also, it came with a Braden PTO winch so it has to keep the Spicer. Drive shafts are everywhere! I think I will stick with the NV4500 conversion, I know I can move the engine forward a bit and make it work. But I will definitely look into the shorter shaft first cause I want to be able to return the truck to original at a later date. Hell I might save the money and just stick with the SM420, you have to start out in 2nd and 4th keeps me from speeding! By the way, the 93-94 year NV4500 has a lower first gear 6.34 to 1, 95 and up had the higher first you mentioned. These are harder to find but there are shops that sell the package with the lower first. Still not as low as the SM420 though. Thanks for all the advice.
