Wish you were down here. The loan of an EX and the talents to get you started would be something for you, but your too far from me. Id be busting your but and me getting a cut of the work too. haha..

Have you called around your area up there for someone (welder/shop) that wants a helper and you can use their equipment. Right guy and you are rolling, then take that money and get a unit.

Aluminum is the killer for you, otherwise the 160STH would be good for stick and HF TIG. Cool little DC welder.

Yea, PA, the shipping, etc. I'm out.

But see if there is someone local that will work with you. I have kids (not that you're a kid) over all the time. We teach them, some actually are off welding.