(Ghack attack) I would have a frank conversation with dude, and say there's no shame in admitting it's beyond you capabilities, either make it PERFECT, or take it off, full refund. 6,500 smackeroos is a lot for an awful look. FUCK THAT.
Problem is, with it mounted this low, longer stuff (2x4x16', 24' lengths of steel) would hit the roof. No, I gotta have something way bigger for my uses.
That's the suck. If you're going to replace the tailgate, I'd like the old one. I'm going to build my Cybertruck from spare parts. At this rate, I should complete it faster than my reservation! :D