If your uncle is an overall truck guy, then I'm sure he would do the work for you. Ford lover or no, most truck guys will help each other out. If that is the case then perhaps he can give you hands on teaching and show you how to do it. That would be ideal really. You learn how to weld while getting your truck fixed.
Now as to the body shop approach, I can't give costs but I can tell you it will be spendy. You would save money by stripping the cab off and taking it in, but it will still be spendy. Take the truck to a body shop, I am sure they would be willing to provide an estimate of the work. I know all about those price differences for you guys too. The first trip I made over to Sarnia, Ont, I was shocked at how much higher prices were for things. Of course, the exchange rate on the dollar was high in my favor at that time so it evened out for the most part.
