Trans Am Crossmember: Need advice

The situation:
Recent mishap leaves me in need of replacement of front crossmember (K member).

The specs:
1998 Trans Am 100+k miles,LS1,auto trans,3.88 rearset.Bilstein shocks & struts otherwise stock.


The dillema:
Oddly enough the stock replacement is the most expensive solution.
About $200-$300 more than so called high perf. replacements.

Car will be a daily driver albeit spirited driving mostly hiway some city (thats why I need the damn crossmember in the first place   )

Crossmember is shot for sure. Almost took out the rack and pinion. Tie rods are tight,rims straight, wheel bearings:no noise no wheel shake. Tight turning,but pulls so hard to the right changes lanes by itself in 100 ft.

Aftermarket promises weight reduction and durability.I dont really need better handling, but...

OEM is well,,OEM.I expect it to fit no tricks required.

I will be hiring out the work to the tune of approx $1500.00

The Question:
So, what do you have under your 98 T/A and does it work right ?
Was it as easy as OEM replacement ?
What should I beware ?
e-mail me at Proximo2005@gmail.com if youve changed your crossmember on a street driven vehicle. Let me know how it went. Thanks