mk2 escort gearbox trouble..

[shaun1.6ghia]

i have a 1.6 ghia escort 1977 that is a auto shell, some muppet put a four speed in an not lined anything up. as you can expect the crossmember don't line the gearbox up correctly an makes it sit too low which puts strain on the shaft balljoint. whats the best thing to do? i want to run a manual box. would a type 9 5speed fit better (alltho the shell would need some welding) or should i weld a bracket to the crossmember or is there any fabricated crossmembers for sale anywhere?

is there anyone who's had this problem and how did you fix it??

thanks shaun