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it's been done already and there are kits available to convert. cost is a major factor along with pcm issues due to the auto gone. many places now build a great auto trans with less hassles and expense.
http://www.keislerauto.com is the company that offers the 5 or 6 speed conversions but they recently removed the Dakota kit from their site, I think it's because they're working out some various PCM issues. It does cost about $6-7k once everything is said and done though.