Both are good.
The auxiliary transmission was probably put in to give you an OD gear, check and see. If so you really should keep it.

Have you considered relocating the shifter and or bending it to fit better?

Did 46 have a manual or vacuum shifted 2 speed? I've seen some of that style truck with a shift lever for the 2 speed... that's simpler than vacuum if it's an option in your case?

Grigg

•1951 GMC 250 in the Project Journals
•1948 Chevrolet 6400 - Detroit Diesel 4-53T - Roadranger 10 speed overdrive - 4 wheel disc brakes
•1952 Chevrolet 3800 pickup
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"First, get a clear notion of what you desire to accomplish, and then in all probability you will succeed in doing it..." -Henry Maudslay-