My brother-inlaw (a mechanic not a body man) thinks I can repair this by welding bolts to the deep parts and pulling them, I think I need to find a donor cab and cutting and welding in what I need, but he thinks welding the a-pillar is a bad idea. What do you guys think?

 

Although it is salvageable, IMHO I think I would look for a part and section it in.

 

Anything can be saved with enough time. Cutting and welding in what you need from a donor will be a quicker and less time consuming fix. Welding an A pillar is not a big deal or a safety issue. Many,many vehicles have the door hinges welded to the pillar. I've cut a zillion off and re-welded. All newer Chevy trucks have welded hinges to the A-pillar for instance. A lot of kinks and stretching in that 'ol dent. It would take a bit to get it all back. gary