i run a Goerend tranny and converter. Goerend Transmission Incorporated the single disc should be fine for you. Dave also sells a valve body too. there are a few sponsors here that are Goerend dealers so you might be able to get a price on them.

Suncoast and Dunrite i've also heard good about. you should prolly look into them too. to install the converter it's a pain to pull the tranny perty much all the way out. the crossmember is really tight and a frame spreader or a porta-power will make life much more easier. we decided to use the BFH approach.

 

If ya smack that crossmember a time or two with the BFH there's a sweet spot in there where it will slide right out.

 

So, other than having to use the BFH to get the crossmember out, replacing the torque converter and valve body is pretty straight forward?

I took the truck out yesterday to pick up some lumber for a project and noticed the shudder only happens if I'm pushing her a little. I had the bed filled with 12' 2x4s and 2x6s, so she was loaded pretty good. I am hoping that the only damage is the converter. If I DIY the tranny, I'll probably take it down to a tranny shop to have it inspected before I do the work. I just want to make sure the bands and clutches are not destroyed.

BTW: Dennis, it's in the 50s today and raining heavy.

 

The cross member is easy once you figure it out.
Remove drive shafts and all linkage. Then take the transfer case off.
Then support the trans unbolt the trans mount jack it up a little, enough to get the mount out and take it out. Then unbolt the cross member and hit it up once it pops loose it should slide towards the rear and you can drop it out.