Possibly looking to swap 22R to 2LT in my 87. I heard that both the G52 and the W56 will accept diesel bells. I have the G52 currently, and have found that it's about 30% weaker than the W56.

The truck I have is a very nice one in very good condition, and I wouldn't want to have to cut the carpet to modify for different shifters. The one I have is set up with the T-case shifter coming out of the T-case, not the top of the tranny.

What can be done?

 

I had an 85 4x4 with the 2lt. It was a cool motor but was less powerful than the 22r. If I were in your position and could use the original transmission I would just do that, unless you are looking to run it hard or modify the diesel motor to be much more powerful.