Greiner, What is making this confusing is we are talking about two different setups at the same time. I'm going to stick with your second question about using the top shift case with the froward shift trans. SINGLE CASE SETUP
Look at the pic. The two transmissions ARE the same length. They both bolt right in to my truck. The ONLY difference I had to contend with was the shifter locations. The T-cases are the same EXCEPT for the shifter linkage and location.
Look at the pic again to see where your shifters will be if you use a forward shift trans and top shift case. They will be farther apart and you will have to make a cover plate for hole that isn't being used anymore.
So to make it simple, If your T-case is like the one in the upper trans in the pic, complete with shifter, just bolt it up, plug the other hole and go.
