please help

my 97 blazer just started burning tranny fluid like crazy and now is slipping really bad between 1 and 2. I have had to add a lot of fluid to it. I got a check engine light and code said shift solenoid A performance or stuck off. Is this an easy fix to replace the solenoid and is it an expensive part

The solenoid code could be a wiring or solenoid or PCM problem.
But transmissions do not burn fluid.
You need to look for the leak.
If it is a 4W?
Is the transfer case getting overfull?

It is a 4x4, not so sure what you mean about the transfer case getting overfull. I suspected a leak at first but can't find one. the fluid may not neccessarily be burning but it is getting really hot. you can smell it after you have been driving a little while and get out, and when you check the dipstick if you smell the fluid it definately has a burnt smell to it. It has a real hard time shifting from 1st to 2nd so it looks to me like the solenoid isn't working properly or is stuck and not working at all and that is why the fluid is getting so hot, but I really don't know a whole lot about trannies. what do you guys think? Do you think I might have a much worse problem on my hands, because that is what the local tranny shops I have talked to are telling me? Not sure if they're trying blow smoke up my ass though.

good point about the OEM parts, thanks

On a 97 some transmission problems leds back to ign switch.
Proper testing and finding the leak and repair ing the code is first thing to start with.
Proper testing on a good transmission capable scanner and getting codes and where it is leaking can point out the problem.
Burnt fluid is not good or a bad leak.
I would suggest a good repair shop over a transmission shop.
Some transmission shops may be good and Some transmission chain stores are rebuild happie.

Check around Ask around
Word of mouth.
Family friends coworkers neighbors business people and delivery people.
Mailmen and parcel delivery people get around and notice a lot of stuff.
Even a good parts house knows what shops are good and not good.
Chamber of commerce and better business bureau and city hall.
If you find a good referral to a repair shop go look them over and talk to them.
Look for a clean looking busy place with nice people running it.
Ask a few questions and ask about their qualifications and training.
Not all places have trained tech/mechanics.
If they do not find a place that does.
Even all dealers do not have all trained techs/mechanics.