gmpartsdirect has the 97 optispark brand new for 280

 

If you like the car don't be scared about the mileage. Even if you think you have no mechanical skills, pick up a chiltons and get to work, water pumps and optisparks are not difficult, time consuming the first few times around, but not difficult.

Damn $400-500 in labor is crazy, I'd do a water pump then for $100 or something. Even then I would feel like I'm ripping you off.

 

well im either going to get a rebuild kit for my car or buy a performabuilt tranny.. im going to be putting a stall so which one should i do.. and wheres a good place to get a racing rebuild kit