Much of what you said applies to my diesel swap as well. I used a radiator from a '77 f250 and moved it ahead about 1 1/2". Stock radiator from a v8 would have been good, but mine had no rad when I bought it. It was in the process of being parted out and scrapped. My shifter came right straight out of the original hole. Had to build a trans crossmember and new rear drive shaft. The front was retained but with a conversion type u-joint to mate to the gm trans. Had to add a return line back to the tank for the fuel system. The list goes on and on, but it was a REALLY FUN project, and I find I am the most content when up to my eyeballs in this type of activity. For whatever reason, I ended up with another good running cummins 6at on my test stand, and though I do NOT need another vehicle, the thing calls to me like a siren song. The '54 gmc is on craigslist and a neighbor has an '83 landcruiser wagon with a blown head gasket............. Or better yet, Anybody have an early bronco for sale? ....... Bottom line, gather up the parts and do the 6.9 , don't get involved in expensive aftermarket stuff. It's way more fun to visit the wrecking yards and figure it out for yourself