Hey J, where Upstate are you? I have access to the alleged "special" tool and might get you a deal on the seal. I got the new updated one for mine for about $50. I would never put in the old style one, I've done 2 and they were both loose in the bore. The new one has barbed outer edges to hold it in place. $1500 seems like alot to me, I agree with Daniel on price. But a 4x4 in the rust belt, they could be covering their a** in case they run into a problem. If every thing comes apart ok, you can do it in a weekend. I had my '89 4x4 apart in 2 1/2 to 3 hours by myself.