Upgrade a retro

I have a 1982 Ford econoline. Wanting to go deisel and 4wd. The quote I got was 5k for the 4wd and lift ( Ihave 2wd ) and want to save some $ by searching out the parts myself. IS there a year that Ford changed the front axle fittings or will any ford explorer/ bronco /F150-550 work fine? Second, the engine part, other than dashboard gauges ( taken care of mostly) will a power stroke have the same motor mounts as that year inline six and is that the only concern I should have with changing the engine and maybe flywheel? Big 411 request I admit. Thank you for the help.
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