Ford Repair: transmission overhaul, ford f 150, flex plate

Question
I have a '98 Ford F-150 XLT 4.2 V6 with a standard transmission.  The clutch is about to go out.  

I was told that it would cost $500 to fix.  Is it affordable to put in an automatic instead of overhauling the clutch?  If so how much?

Also, How difficult would it be to do myself if I have a garage to do it in?

Todd

Answer
Hello and thanks for the question...I'll try to help.
 Stick with what's in the vehicle. The cost of getting an automatic transmission and installing it is way above 500.00 bucks. The transmission alone will run you about 2500.00, not to mention that you will need a different wiring harness, processor, flex plate, starter......and other things to hook it up correctly.
Hope this helps,
Erik