I may be getting into the work on my 84 Caravelle. I have located 2
South African parts vans (1990 & 1996) for front spindles, so I can
fit my Porsche brakes.

BUT... there are still problems with the gearshift setup. Do I need
to find an unused MSDS shifter0-adaptor mechanism... or can I take
another route?

Using the MSDS system means installing the Porsche shifter, which
will result, I think, in huge lever-throws when the lever is
extended. But why not go the Toyota van route, fitting a stubby
gearlever mechanism in a custom console against the dash, with a
cable-operated Toyota shifter such as a 6-speed Corona or similar
item?

This would require the 2 short Toyota cables to be hugely lengthened,
and to fit mounting brackets for the ends at the front of the trans.
One would have come in directly from in front of the trans to
push-pull axially on the front of the shifter rod protruding straight
forward from the trans nose; the other cable would have to come in
from one side, just above the rod, to push-pull on a fitting clamped
over the rod, so that it rotates the rod back & forth. The amount of
movement would need to be just right in order to engage the gears.

Has anyone looked at this idea?