how bad is it to convert an automatic 2.3 16V to a manual. i do have a donor 16V with a manual transmission so parts is really not a problem and time is on my side. or would it be cost effective just to buy one with a manual trans and forget the whole conversion.

I think you should sell your auto, send your parts car to me, then buy the manual

Actually if you have the time and space and parts to do it, and you're willing to get your hands and some clothes dirty, go for it. You'll need to get someone to help w/ removing and installing the tranny, but most everything else can be done by yourself.