I figured I'd post a small update with everything that is going on and see if anyone has suggestions...
The hitches are still 'in progress' but a good Saturday afternoon should have them finished up. It'll be nice to be able to tow with this!
As for the issue with the clutch - I found none of the flywheel bolts are visible, even with the inspection cover removed. Unless I'm missing something, it appears I'll have to pull the transmission just to inspect the clutch. That being said, I imagine I'm due for one anyway. When I popped the cover off, I noted an ominous burnt clutch smell. I also found a little clutch material in the bottom of the bell housing. The rear main seal is also leaking enough that the flywheel had a little oil on it. I've been wrong before (ask my wife) but to me, that all adds up to a bad clutch.
So, I started taking things apart in order to make a dent in this large project. I removed my twin stick, which was easy after the alterations I made during the install, the shifter, and the rear drive shaft (after marking it!) without much issue. The front shaft is positioned in such a way that the transfer case cross member needs removed, which is fine since it has to come out anyway. I pulled the cross member and dropped the front shaft. That's where I'm currently at. I'm ready to drop the transmission and transfer case. Once that's out, I figure I'll have the flywheel resurfaced, replace the rear main seal, install a new clutch, clean and install the transmission and transfer case, refresh the fluid in both, replace the drive shaft U-Joints, then take it for a spin.
As is typical, this project will be drawn out a little. Besides trying to find time and an extra set of hands, I recently tore my calf muscle. I'm hobbling around a little still and want to avoid re-injuring it. I still intend to have this taken care of soon but we know how that can go.
Anyway, does anyone have any advice, hints, brand preference, etc.? I'm all ears.
Lastly, below are some pictures of my progress so far.
Rear drive shaft at D20 transfer case:
Rear drive shaft at D44:
Front drive shaft at D44:
Front drive shaft at D20. You can see how the cross member gets in the way:
Clutch linkage stuff:
Cables/Electric:
Emergency brake cable *through* the cross member:
Bolts and brackets on the cross member:
Ready to unbolt from the engine: