Okay, to add some tech, looks like the XL7's towing capacity is 3500 lbs. Since I'll be using it's power plant, be at a similar weight, and have better breaks - I think I'll be okay.
Roof is staying on. I'm kinda screwed no matter what way I go, but function's more important to me than form. There's not really any room to move forward without getting into the door. I can go about 6" forward from where the Toyota axles are now before rubbing. There's a few ways I can think of to do this right now:
* For looks, I think I can weld over the rear wheel wells to make it look better (maybe a battery box on one side, and a "compartment" on the other?)
* I can install 27"ish wheels on wide axles, cover the lower part of the rear doors, and make some kinda exterior fenders. Maybe i can cut the rear doors in 1/2 or something to keep side-trailer access (front doors are going to be removed for 1/2 doors on tow vehicle). Something like this maybe:
* I can find some small tires that will fit under the rig (may have to do tandem axles - wonder if I can do two axles on one spring?), and still leave room for suspension travel.
* I can install 27" tires as far forward in existing wheel well as possible (about 6" further forward than the 35" pictured), and cut about 12-18" off the front of the body & frame.
* I can install 27" wheels with a 3" body lift (I want to avoid this, but it's not ruled out)