You are a good analyst the thing is it's stick shift, and I got so lucky to the one I have, it would take some doing to another
but I'll figure something out, wouldn't be the first time that someone told me that won't fit in there, and then TADA I do burnout in front of them to show that it will work
I would be one of the last to tell someone it can't be done, or it is a bad idea. I can come up with options on how to make the change over, but my ideas are based on what I can find here. The parts I listed are going to be needed, some substitutions can be done (but you said you wanted to stay Track/Kicker).
I converted a Samurai rear end to an IFS front diff housing for my Tracker (I had/have an aluminum one to copy for measurements).
Samurai transfer cases can be fitted for use in Kickers.
Samurai front ends can and are being fitted for use under Kickers. Calmini even makes a kit.
Drive lines can be adapted.
Mounts can be fabbed.
It is tough making suggestions to others because we do not all have the same abilities or equipment. No one wants to lead someone into starting a project they are not able to complete.