I admire your initiative in trying to get this deal to go down. I don't even have a subie, but I would consider investing in the project.
I have seen similar purchase pooling deals in the Vanagon world. You can still get new Vanagon parts from South Africa.
Buying a load of used trannies from the other side of the world is risky. What is the price differential if you just order new ones?
I drool when I dream about a lifted OBS Sport with an extended range transmission and a little camp trailer. Someday perhaps.....
I will be watching for progress on this idea.