Swapping out my blown engine soon and figure I better think about trans. Good opportunity to replace if necessary.

XJ being fixed is an 01 and the parts XJ is a 95. That said, both will be external slave.

Here are the contenders;

2001 NV3550
213K
Unknown history, but have been using for 30K or so
Noisy, but more quite when I switched to AMSOIL
Shifted better when going to AMSOIL
Known to pop out of 2nd or 3rd gear when dragging on said gear; mine has done this with 3rd gear while dragging going down a steep mountain. Otherwise hasnt been an issue, but concerned this may worsen.
Throwout bearing always rides on PP
New throwout bearing shaft due to it exploding and destroying said shaft

1995 AX-15
270K
Unknown history
Grinds when trying to put in first and reverse, but clutch engages at floor; looking to bleed and get it operational enough to test the trans.
Throwout bearing doesnt ride on PP


Possible option is continue to use the NV3550 and in time rebuild the AX15 in my own time, assuming the NV3550 will hold out.

I know the AX is a direct swap with the exception of the shifter; but what about slave, clutch, PP, and pilot?