who here has converted from auto to manual?

Good man. I put a TKO in my e-body and I hope the TKX is better. Actually, I know they're better because it's a different design. The TKO is a top loader truck style trans. The 2 to 3 shift is terrible.
The TKX fixes all of that. You will be very happy.
You may have trouble finding pedals. Don't know if they are reproduced. Los Angeles Craigslist has a set of A-body 4 speed pedals for $200 right now. Maybe he'll ship?
If he's getting a TKX conversion kit, the pedals are included- at least in the kits from Silver Sport and American Powertrain, and probably others. Brewer's has them in their kit too, but that's for a four speed- but they also sell reconditioned A body pedals separately.