i found this online looks interesting.

http://www.aldlcable.com/

says plug this in to a laptop with the proper software, and you can read the trouble codes, erase them. and even tune it. says its for OBD-1 which is what i am. just wanted to hear some thoughts about this.

Look on Fullsize Chevy Forum. A lot of 5.7 TbI guys on there..

is that the name of the forum?

http://www.fullsizechevy.com/forums/ I don't think you'll like the environment as much, but there is some good info on there forthe 5.7L guys...

well i looked on there. so far for OBD-1 i need that ALDL cable, and a laptop with that driver software but still need a chip to program it looks like. im getting closer to figuring out how to chip and tune a 88-95 [8D]

http://www.pcmforless.com/index.php?option=content&task=view&id=61&Itemid=40

should i try to get one of these put in and go from there?

I'd say just have them burn you a new PCM and call it good...