[Desert dog]

Sorry to hear of your troubles. To answer your question the easiest, cheapest way to address the issue is to fix what you have. Swapping in an automatic would entail a lot of work and expense.
In order to install an 700R4 you would need to install a new rear crossmember, have the driveshaft shortened, purchase a tranny, torque converter, flex plate, starter, tranny cooler, shifter, and other assorted parts and fluids. It could run well over 2k by the time you're done.
You're issue could be something relatively simple like a bad clutch or perhaps the pressure plate installed backwards.
Respectfully, my advise would be to take a deep breath, and pull the tranny to assess the problem.