manual valve body

Last one I used I kept the factory floor console shifter. Get a reverse pattern mvb and you dont need to worry about hitting neutral. Not much else to do really other than removing the kickdown linkage since it will no longer be needed.
TCI 121700: Manual Valve Body 1967-79 Chrysler Torqueflite 727/904 | JEGS so the pattern on that would be 1-2-3 or D-N-P and are there any brands to stay away from? and would i also have to swap rear-ends now or could i do it a little later? also what should i do for shifter as i have no console or anything? should i get an oer console then do a shifter or can i go just to the floor with a shifter boot?