If you do a swap, you will need the engine electrical harness, as Chris said a donor vehicle is the best way to go about that.
As for the 2.5, I have read other forums where folks said they were going to do a swap after the 4 banger died, only to complain that it wouldn't. That engine must have been neglected to blow like that, but I'm glad to know I'm not the only one who misses shifts with that God-awful 5 speed. Give me a truck 4 speed any day.
