Welcome!! Well the first thing you ought to do is introduce yourself to Mark (Milleroutdoors) on here. He has a shop near Scio, not too far from Jefferson. I can't tell you how many engines, transmissions, injectors, headstuds, up-pipes, lift kits, etc, etc, etc, have been done in his shop. He also hosts many get-togethers out there as well with fellow diesel enthusiasts. It is a great place to hang out and learn the in's and outs of our trucks. If you are interested in learning how to do the work yourself it is a great place to start. My truck has spent several nights in that shop... LOL

As far as shops go, I am like the rest. Typically do all the work myself. But I can definitely tell you to steer away from a local shop called Cordray's Transmission (Diesel shop). Heard more bad then good. Can't really get into it in here...

Honestly the rest of your questions you just should ask Mark (milleroutdoors) he has lived in the area his whole life and give you the in's and outs of this area.