2001 GMC Sierra 2500HD 8.0 / 8.1 L

Recently truck began stalling. Took truck to mechanic who couldn’t get it in until following week. Expecting a snow storm and needing to plow he recommended continuing to use the truck as it would continue to restart. Brought truck back to mechanic and he discovered it to be in need of a crank position sensor. Quoted $100 to $150 to replace. Several days later mechanic got back to me that accessing the part was not possible without removing the engine. New quote $1200. Apparently the part is directly behind the gas pedal above the transmission. I Recommenced cutting a hole in floor board behind the gas pedal to access it if necessary. Thanks for your help.