Because of the weight, and height of this engine, it might be a little much for a S-10. I am sure it could be done, but your truck might not be to happy about it.
Flyin71H off the yahoo club put together a full size 1/2 ton chevy with a 5 spd and has a load of miles on it, really thinking about copying him in what he did.
D44s should hold up fine with a 4BT under moderate usage & reasonable sized tires (<35"). You can break any axle if you put your mind to it.3. torque, dana 44 is an aweful week axle to put that kind of torque thru.