Go Into Debt to Get a Raise at Work?

The speaker is a subcontractor who cleans swimming pools and needs a personal vehicle for work. His boss currently lends him one, but he has a broken-down 2001-2003 Ford F-150 requiring a $5,000 engine fix. Fixing it would result in a 20-33% raise, increasing his net income from $33,500 annually. He's considering a loan for the repair, but an alternative is selling the broken truck for $1,000-$1,500 and buying a running one for $5,000-$6,000. He recently experienced a "life-destruction event": a mental health crisis leading to family violence, resulting in two years and five months in prison. He's been out for a week and just started this job. Given his unstable situation, he's advised against borrowing money. The recommendation is to drive his boss's truck longer, save cash, and avoid adding stress through debt. His current budget shows all money breaking even. Major expenses include $300 for gas (105 gallons/month). He pays $250 in rent, but also $500 for his separated wife's rent, as they have two kids and a no-contact order prevents coordination. He's advised not to default to paying for everything and to let his wife develop financial independence. The importance of slowing down and stabilizing his life after prison is emphasized, rather than making impulsive decisions like taking on debt. He's offered "The Total Money Makeover" and "Building a Non-Anxious Life" to help him rebuild.