My apologies for putting this in the wrong post area.. it sorta sounds like a parts thread. I will look in the swap meet.
(1) As for the fabrication, there was optimism and thoughts on how it could be done were discussed (but as you know there are a lot of variables here). And the price will be high (bummer). I am going to look and see if I can find one.
(2) I do have one more question that I hope the bolters can answer. Are the rear fenders the same between the 1 ton and 1/2 ton. From what I read this is true but would like an expert's opinion.