I did have one of the little brackets break on my D2 while on a wheeling trip. Luckily it was an easy trail and it broke with me in hi range...it's a super random part that broke and I carry a spare now just in case. I prefer a direct mechanical linkage vs cable personally.

 

I think that the 2004 D2 shifter also has an interlock solenoid on it to prevent accidentally shifting hi/lo unless in neutral. In the earlier D2's this solenoid is in a different location. There are lots of write-ups on what to do with the wiring for this, since your truck will have the solenoid on the transfer case itself.
The physical installation of the D1 shifter is not difficult. Hardest parts are enlarging the hole for the shift lever, and adjusting the linkages.
Lots of people on here have reported having trouble with the D2 cable linkages seizing up. Haven't seen anything similar with the D1 linkage.

 

You are in the middle of nowhere. I am also in the Sandhills near North Platte..lol....following this thread as I am looking for a Disco 1 or 2 as well, and might have to install the shifter.

 

I made this for about $20 And once I had it together it took me about 2 hours to install it: