Unless you install a transmission option with overdrive, your are going to do a lot of work for the same result. All transmissions without overdrive have a final gear of 1:1, like the three speed in the truck.
I would repair the linkages, so it is a solid driver then drive around to see what you want the truck to do.
Where in Louisa County do you live? I live in the Fredericksburg, and the President of the ODSS, Cosmo, lives in UVALand.
I would love to meet, show you my truck and check out yours. Welcome to the ODSS!!
