First things on my list once I get her back is trans fluid flush, fuel filter, O2 sensor and the new cat. Probably in that order.

I'd say fuel filter first. Takes like...10 minutes

With the trans flush, its recomended to do it twice isn't it, cause like half stays in the Tq. converter? So do it once give it a day or two and do it again?

filter may come first, you have a point

Flushes you do one time, as they use the cooler line hoses to add and take away fluid while the engine is running. But if you just drop the pan and change the fluid, yes you have to do that twice to get all the fluid out.

I know my local Midas shop charges $88 for a flush, and they don't change the filter. Is this a good thing? In case he wants to flush the fluid and is told it'* fine to leave the filter in there, given that there are 160K miles on the car, should he go for the whole thing?

Answering this helps me, too.

Best approach to that is....

Drop the pan and change fluid and filter. Drive for one week, then flush.

My approach is....

Change transmission. Add auxilliary cooler. Add external filter (summit racing has kits). Never drop pan again.

Very good approach. I saw from the engineless engine bay pics that the tranny is a bit on the rusty side. Is this external only, or is this a sign of something strange about to happen? If I'm not asking the question properly, assume I'm interested in how to remove the transmission without dropping the giant hunk of framing with the crossmembers and such. I'm probably questioning somewhere along those lines.

I'll look into finding another trans in the coming year, so when mine does go I'll be ready, and not scrambling to find one.

Thanks for the advice

This one?
Remote Trans Filter

That'* one of them. The more expensive kit includes a trans temp sender. I'm going that route this spring, once my conversion is complete and functional. If you really wanted to go cheap, I know the *-series trucks/suvs have them when ordered with the Vortec 4.3 (used as oil filter relocators). Keep in mind the internal filter should still remain in place as it acts as a scoop of sorts for the fluid.

pretty sure that was just the 4wd *-series. but thats a good idea!