Thanks for sharing your page is really helpful! So it sounds like the more available transmissions may be later models with electronic speedo, like this one which can be matched with cable X or electric gauges:
http://m.ebay.com/itm/231422411006?nav=SEARCHWhat is a good price to pay for these? Is there any known sources of purchasing them from other than ebay/Craigslist/junkyards?
Check with Tom Langdon at
Langdonsstovebolt.com . He sometimes has them ready to go, but I think he usually has a waiting list.
I think a fair price for a used, pre-inspected unit is around $350. More if it is a 1993 S10 World Class unit. Less if the condition is unknown. Get your own from a salvage yard for $150 or less and take your chances.
I sell them on eBay and get better prices than the one you referenced but it's because I allow returns and show the guts of the T5, clean it, reseal it, and have 100% feedback.
I don't have any with a cable speedo connection at this time. I search for them locally nearly every day.
Lastly, a 0.86 5th gear is common and matches well with a 3.42 or 3.08 rear or anything in between. the 0.72 5th gear is great for a 3.73 rear. Make sure you buy a Muncie pattern T5. Chevy used a T5 with a FORD case in 1994 and up S10 and S15 trucks and 1993 and up Camaros and Firebirds.
Jay
