If you run skinnies in the front it's not bad at all but if you go with some big fat tires up front then you better be lifting weights and working on your biceps.
i have a 351w and run manual rack with 225's up front.. all day-everyday. dont be a wimp. engine bay looks better. feel of the road is better. doesnt matter if its sitting still or not it turns just fine. manual FTW
Those that said manual steering sucks blah blah blah are out of their minds. I like the manual steering. Piece of cake to drive. Shouldn't be chowing down a BK tripple stack and large drink while your driving anyways. The DS2's with manual steering on the street took a bit to get used to.
I installed a Flaming River rack on mine as well and can honestly say that I should have done it 10 years ago! I have 225/50/16 up front and also run draglites and sknnies up front once in a while and do not notice much of a difference in steering ease with either wheel. IT IS AWESOME!
Have manual steering on the 82 and really like it. My 79 has been through about 10 replacement racks in it's 275k miles and 29 years of my ownership. The 82 went through 4 (all recycled...) in less than 2k miles. I have skinnies, but do not hesitate to drive and park anywhere. No leaks. Less stuff under the hood.
Also have a manual Chevelle that is going to stay that way.
Manual rack here on both of my cars. One has skinnies and the other one has pony wheels. Its not bad at all with either. I do run my slightly higher tire pressure for the fronts and it does help.