I am in the midwest and they think their sh** doesn't stink. I do not go there. I go to Nissan unless I have to go to Infiniti and then I drive 45 minutes to avoid the most rude uptight a holes at the shop nearest me.

 

Ask to speak to the person that will be doing the body work on your car. I would personally go in rather than doing it over the phone so there is no chance of misunderstanding. I would simply tell him exactly what you told us and that you would rather put the money towards a new kit and the paint has a lifetime warranty. Of course try and boost his ego a bit by thanking him for his generosity but you simply don't want to work on the front end. You simply want your sides fixed. He should be cool and since it is an under the table job I am sure he will shrug it off. GL