Mitsubishi Repair: crank shaft position sensor, crank angle sensor, crank shaft position sensor

Question
I have a 1989 Mitsubishi Galant 2.0 litre, DOHC that has just been diagnosed with a faulty crankshaft position sensor.  I just about fell off my rocker when I heard how much the part cost.  Do you have any idea where I can get a used one and shed some light as to why this part is so outrageously priced.

The car just died while I was driving, my mechanic put it on the scope and thats what it showed the problem was.

Answer
John,
My guess is that you were quoted a price just shy of $600 for a new crank angle sensor (CAS).  You may find a few dealerships willing to get you that part for as little as $460; but even that is a lot of money.

The reason why this part is so expensive is because it is a highly specialized and unique part.  Also, the fact that it's probably a part that is no longer manufactured probably also contributes to it's high price.  You may have luck calling around to different salvage yards asking if they have any CAS that would work on your car.  I believe the models and years of vehicles that used the same CAS were any 89-90 Mitsu. Galant, Mitsu. Eclipse, Eagle Talon, and Plymouth Laser.  Though it must be from a 2.0L, non-turbo engine of those models to work.  And if no auto salvage yards in your area have any matching vehicles, you can always try to search on eBay.
Good luck!