spooner, you've got a great start. i'm t2000 c15 eaton 18 auto shift with 3.08 rear gear. i'm right at 34,000 but mine is made a bit heavy in places 'cause that's the way i thought was best to go then. now i'd say stronger where necessary and save where you can. you'll love the auto shift. the reason i went with the 18 was for extra gear ratio's. figured easier to order that way than not and wish that i had just one more here and one there. i'm c15 and glad i am. if you can find a 26,000# rear with 3.50 or down [towrd] 3.00 id say go, i ues 4th generally to pull off with. ive got some ideas that i used on mine but i can't seem to get them on here [not smart enough yet]. let me know and i'll try to get some to you. oh, i'm plumb crazy 'bout mine. it's on the for sale link, the last pic---- nope--- 'taint for sale. mase