Update:
It is NOT the output shaft issue. Don't have the VIN number since its in the shop. They said its a bad bearing which eventually trashed two of the gears. They are overnighting a new tranny for me, and they said it should be here about 10 AM tomorrow. They said they will do their best to have it back to me before they close early for christmas eve at 3:00, which would get me home by about 7:30/8
They said if it comes in late, or if they are unable to install it, I can keep the loaner as long as it takes me to get back later next week.
I had a transmission replaced at 110k miles in my 3000GT that I used to drive, and it took 2 weeks to get that done. Diagnosing a problem, ordering a new transmission and installing it in 36 hours is a pretty impressive feat the best i know.
So far so good- if anyone is in the Fort Wayne area of Indiana, summit chevrolet has been pretty good to me, and they know they won't even get repeat business since I don't live anywhere close to here! felt I had to give them a plug!
It's still unfortunate to have major issues (aka a whole new transmission) at just over 1400 miles... certainly will have me a little nervous for a while... but I'm glad to see this isn't a common issue out there. Hopefully it will be a 1-of! Thanks for the help!