You know Chopper, I think I'm gonna model the modifications of my truck off of yours.

 

check the cad( central axle dissconect) its a common problems with these trucks. easiest way to find out is if the front driveshaft is moving when you lock it in 4x4. as for removing the tcase.. to me its not a big deal you should be able to have it out and back in with in 8 hours. that includs doing the repair.