Update....For those curious about the swap.

Just returned from Moab...Got a great chance to do some real "testing" of the 5-speed swap out there...

Seems my 1st gear /low range crawl speed is slower and lower than with the auto...defenatly WAY more controll.

Big improvment in engine braking when dropping off steep ledges, and decending steep slopes.

Overall, the manual tranny and clutch held up well on some of Moabs more difficult trails. (wish I could say the same for my CVs)

Gas mileage on the trip down to Moab and back I averaged 19MPG+!!!
Not bad, especially when I was "cruising" at 105MPH much of the way there!!!
And, thats with HEAVY wide-*** 35s installed...

Stock tired VXs would surley see well above 20MPG...