Ok, I'll take my shot at answering this:


"We don't do it because it is easy, we do it because it is hard."
JFK

 

imo, a little more to a vehicle than just an engine.
I've stuck a 350 and a 327 in a couple of jeeps. (many, many do) it was still a sway prone, bouncy jeep.
same thing here. we weren't offered the more efficient td5. instead we got an underpowered v8 derived from an antique block. it's just a power plant swap. I like the tcase, tranny set up and would like to keep them. but if it were as easy to swap in and adapt, as other platforms, I'd be all over it.
if a man gets an organ transplant from a pig donor, we don't suddenly start thinking of him as a pig
.................................................. .................................................. ....insert bad joke here ^

 

can't d1 transmission be used

 

Sure. Or you can use your D2 transmission. Scroll down in this link: Chev Petrol Engines - Bell Housing Adaptor Kits - Engine Conversions

You need the Chev V8 petrol (late) to Rover ZF 4-speed auto bell housing mechanical conversion package/parts.

Obviously you will need a chevy ECU or MegaSquirt if your Chevy 350 is fuel injected instead of carbed.

Post up pics!