Dave,
LOL, I remember those times, hell, I am just a bit older but still poor
Its always nice to see verts getting redone. If you have some pics would be interested in seeing..
If you get the 2.2t try to get the wiring harness and ecu. I really can't remember if you can reflash that particular ECU, but it might be worth asking at nasioc. In my suby I ran ECUTEK, which is a software to remap your ecu depending on upgrades, this may or may not be an option, also COBB and probably a few more out there. There are folks that take the 2.2 slap other heads to make nice hybrids. Off the top of my head can't remember if they flow good or bad. I know your trying to keep it budget, but definitely check the other forums for the correct info
Alex