jerni21,
There are cheaper alternatives but they all involve time, scrounging abilities, 'do-it-yourself'ness, and more time. Qualities that most people aren't willing to put up with. Hate to say it, but one of the non-Dumas running gear kits is probably your best bet. Of course, that just depends on what sources you might have access to. If you happen to have friends in the electric motor industry, another that loves to play with his metal lathe, etc...
- 'Doc