Switching from power steering to manual- does anyone do this?

I like the idea of dropping ~15lbs off the front of the car, getting back the 3-5hp that the steering pump robs, possibly getting some better steering feel and cleaning up the engine bay in the process... but is it worth it?

I realize that the swap requires a new box and a new steering column so it's not an afternoon job...

What are your thoughts? Have you done it?

When I was 18-19 (many moons ago...but same Dart) I pulled the belt off of the pump and drove around without the assist but there was a ton of play in the steering and it just felt sloppy...is it correct to assume that the manual box would be better in that regard?

Thanks for any thoughts!!