98 Es300 Front Pipe Assembly

[jpickle1957]

1998 es300 needs a front pipe assembly. my local independent Lexus mechanic ( only brand they service or sell, used only, but not a dealership) quoted me $1600.00 installed. Warned me that aftermarket ones usually won't work correctly even though they're half the price. Part # is 17410-20160. My question is, is there an aftermarket part that anybody knows of that will work correctly or should i go the OEM route and bite the bullet.

Thanks,

joe