chevy tranny, waiting on a 4.3ltr vortec swap. unfortunately, I think my chassis will be shit by the time its ready for the swap. N. Indiana sucks...salted roads, etc. I am highly considering a OME small lift and roof rack for the summer. Possibly even a f/r bumper addition. I plan to take my trooper to the northern part of Michigan for some primitive camping this summer.
the 0-w30 SYN is a must. if you ever take any of my advice josh, please do this. mobile 1 @ walmart is the trick. also, a napa WIC filter is almost a must. (rated on bobistheoilguy.com as the best filter out there)
The "trooper tick" is super common and something to think about. the 0w30 will cure this.
http://www.independent4x.com/ will be your friend for anything off road, as will calmini.com or pirate4x4.com. I have found a few expedition websites that speak highly of the isuzu chassis, and if your interested, lmk and I will get you those sites.
IMO though, the cargo area of your truck will see groceries and diapers.