I have power steering...it's very light and imprecise feeling compared to modern cars. I always wished for the simplicity of manual (though I have yet to drive a manual box a-body) but in all honesty, I think the constant stream of fluid from a perpetually leaking pump is the reason that my car remained almost totally rust free for all these years. :D
I just bought a fresh pump, putting it onto the new motor...only because it's less hassle than finding a manual box and new steering column...sounds like some of you guys prefer the power box anyway so it's probably a wash.