http://www.henrysautoparts.com/
They have tons of GMFS trucks and their price for engines, regardless of vehicle, is $125. Buy the warranty for $35 more and I can bring it back if it's DOA.
Fuck DBW, I would definitely get a cable throttle one.
Why would speed sensors and gauges matter? Would the engine not run right if I don't hook up the speed sensor and gauges? I think I've run my truck with the cluster disconnected, and I know people with failed VSS don't have to get towed home.
Trans is a T5, and I'd have to upgrade to a stronger T5 if I wanted to keep that. 4.8 would chew it up, let alone 5.3 (which is what I'd most likely find at le junkyard). I'd really want a T56, but I don't know how confident I am that I can move the shifter forward...not to mention, acquiring a T56 for under $1000. NV3500 is an option I've considered and might do.