That's rough. Not much you can do about Makerbot Support, but what I would recommend is using that $100 and buy a Smart Extruder+. They're normally $200 but if you own a replicator you can get 50% off for the time being. Also, those come with a 6-month warranty.

As far as your clogged extruder... if you're feeling confident, you could always take it apart and clear the blockage. There's a few Youtube videos of folks doing it - keep in mind taking apart your Smart Extruder will void the extruder's warranty.. but since that's already expired... =]