Pontiac Repair: 1995 pontiac grand am 2.3, decent warranty, salvage yards

Question
where is the best place to find a cheap motor for this car or should my friend throw in the towel and by another beater

Answer
Hi
If your gonna DIY, I would consider 2 choices
1) IF you have a U-Pull-It or Self Serve Salvage yard (junk yard) in your area that would be my first suggestion as far as $$$$$ is concerned.
2) would be to price engines at regular Salvage yards..
Yopu can get an idea of $$$ and avalibilty by searching that particular engine on Ebay. You may even find a good one on there.
I personally HAVE purchased 2 engines and 2 transmissions  Off of Ebay, because none were avalible locally. They also come with a decent warranty, as far as used parts go.
If ya'll ARE NOT going to DIY, check with local engine exchange facilities. They'll offer REALLY good warranties, usually, and they USUALLY use remanufactured or rebuilt units.
I hope this helps.
Good Luck
Pawl