to make a long story short, the wifey had an absolute FIT when i started to agree to accept $23,500 for my rubicon. said we would keep it for haley before giving it away so it looks like the rubicon is a keeper since it only appears to be worth anything to us. ill still be getting the diesel, but only after we get passed this coming tax season.
in the meantime i happened across a retired '76 m880 1 1/4 ton dodge 4x4 with 41,000 original miles for $1000 and i couldnt walk away from it. the v8/tranny/full time 4x4 transfer case (also with low lock and even high lock)/dana 70 rear/dana 60 front @4.10 gears will work out perfectly under a cj7/8 project jeep.
pics of the beast are at