hamfoh - if you have all the packing materials and box, $275 shipped isn't a bad deal. Pack it well (maybe try to scrounge up some extra bubble wrap or whatever) and send it USPS Parcel Post, which will cost you around 25 bucks.

jp - older Pake frames were all 1". If that's what you've got, you'll need a fork with a 1" steerer.

homebrew - I've never heard of it.