The Nissan Path

Hello, all!
I joined quite a while ago, apparently 15 Apr 2013?! Dang...
Anyway, I've got a 1995 4x4 Manual, with the dreaded transmission whine.
Curses! Poor design strikes again!
I've been doing a fair amount of research, recently.
It looks like I can get a replacement transmission from a 1996-2004 Pathfinder, and/or maybe an Xterra, or Frontier?
...and that if I get one from 2001+, it has stronger internals, in addition to a larger fluid capacity.
Ok, that sounds good, as long as it's accurate.
Anyone done this swap? Can confirm?

This poor truck has been so neglected...
I need to get my transmission replaced so that once it's reliably driveable, again, the fun begins...!

To-do:
Transmission replacement
Stereo system replacement (Head unit and speakers are both shot)
Tires, maybe wheels
Spare tire gate... servicing? Replacement?
E-clips to hold sunroof cover knobs onto cover
Cosmetic nonsense

I don't believe the trans for the VQ is a direct bolt-up to the VG engine. I know they make an adapter kit to put a VQ engine into a Z32 300ZX and have it bolt up to the 300ZX transmission. I would think most manual transmissions from a VG-equipped Nissan truck or SUV should work, however.