I hear ya John. Main thing is enjoy life while you can, and a 4000-mile TM trip definitely qualifies! Also, an $1800 tranny rebuild is still cheaper than the depreciation on any newer TV.
And another FWIW weight item for the group-at-large: The 14" spare tire weighed in at 42 pounds. Don't need to stick it on the TV's roof rack (yet), but the option is there if need be....