That's high. What if you bought them from one of the Internet Mitsu dealers listed on this forum and had them shipped? Shipping couldn't be that much, even on 24 of the little rascals.

I'd try some tricks first. Have you used the "rev above 3000 for 30 seconds and kill the motor" trick? Takes several tries if it works. I'd also try about a pint of Dexron atf in the oil for a couple hundred miles, then change the oil AND filter. This will help get rid of any varnish that may be hanging them up. I think you now know it was a false economy to not replace them the first time you were in there...