It'll be cheaper, easier and better if he uses a trimatic. They are better than TH350 and use less power than a TH400. A TH350 or TH400 won't fit behind a VK V8.

What he'll need for column shift operation is:

HX or HZ column shift auto column and shift rod, plus the indicator for the fascia (easier to just get a column shift auto HZ fascia).
HQ-WB RH shift (driver's side shift) V8 trimatic.
253/308 flex plate.
Correct speedo gear for the trimatics drive gear and the car's diff ratio.
Top gear switch for trimatic (if not a HX-WB box) for pollution gear connection.
Transmission fluid lines and cooler. LPG copper tube flared on one end will work, just get an aftermarket cooler.


There will be plugs in the harness to plug into the column switch.
If the VK engine has a trimatic behind it most of the bits he'll need will be on it BUT you'll need a RH shift box. If it is a trimatic the V8 will already have all the pollution equipment on it. If it is a manual it won't have an EGR switch which will be needed if you make it an auto (to comply with HZ ADR's).

As before he should fit a Salisbury diff and V8 tailshaft, but 6cyl 3spd stuff will work with the trimatic. Gearbox crossmember is the same.