Update!
Parts secured. :laugh3:
Long story short, baaaad weather had driven us out, and a few days late we returned (friend helping couldn't take a day off), and one of the people who had expressed an interest in the engine had removed it. Guy was kind enough to remember we had mentioned we'd be back for the transmission, and left it sitting where we had it, minus the jacks.
Basically, we may be missing a few screws, I may not have the wiring for the "part-time 4x4 ON" light (there are two plugs in the transfer case missing a connector. Could not find them), and the inspection plate had one spot slightly torn. I figure can use mine, anyways, and the part, even new can't be that ridiculously expensive. I see what kastein was talking about with the 4 bolts. Too easy!
Also managed to wrench out the front axle assembly. It did not come out of free will, and we KNOW we've been in a fight, having kissed some of the linkage, in the process. :gee: Anyways, it DID come out. It works beautifully, even to the slightest push.
All we're missing is the rear drive shaft. The donor's was banged, with a pronounced dent. Front shaft and axle assembly seemed to have some surface rust. However, a generous spray of WD-40 has improved the appearance a LOT. There is some rust on spots here and there, but they don't seem to be more than superficial, and nothing in critical areas (joints, soldering, gears..).
Currently away, will be back in 10 or so days, and then I can drain the transmission and transfer, take a hard brush to the grease and gunk outside of the parts, get them clean and purdy, grab whatever incidentals (fluids, miscellanea) needed, and get ready to swap stuff. :clap: