On my CJ5 (or any real short wheelbase) AMC360 V8 engine / T18 trans / Scout D300 tcase. A very compact solution. Great gearing and no adapters between components.
On my YJ (or any longer wheelbase) AMC401 V8 engine / AMC TH400 trans / Advance Adapters (Atlas) tcase.
On my project in progress, Chevy 350 EFI V8 engine / GM TH400 trans / AA or STAK tcase
In my opinions only
A EFI small block V8 / non-computerized shifting automatic transmission, preferrably 4speed / aftermarket T case, preferrably 3 or 4 speed / Dana 60 alloy shafted axles, preferrably shaved case (think ProRock, etc)
In an all factory configuration,
Chevy 350 EFI (throttle body), TH400 , adapter, D300 with 4 to 1 gears and twin stick. D60 front. D60 rear.
And from an unlimited budget....
Then the LS7, etc....
T