I was wandering what would be the necessary steps to be taken to convert my '98 rango 5.2 slt 4x4 to a 5-spd manual, if it's even possible. I believe the stock auto tranny is on it's way to being nothing but dead weight on my rango.

Also, I am also looking for suggestions for a dependable suspension, lift kit, tires, and rims. They will need to be able to handle barreling through cow pastures, ravines, river beds, gravel roads, and asphalt in excess of 80+ MPH. (Occasionally called in to help with fugitive recovery)

 

Yes converting to a manual transmission can be done, a lot of work but never less can be done.. there was a thread about it floating around here a few months ago.

 

Find a Ram donor truck and use front /rear axles, engine cradle, trans. The tuff country lift sucks. I used mine in the desert and by the time I was done a straight axle converson would have been way to go.