Congrats on getting the car to NOVA! I am still waiting for title for my car as well so I can register it, (already got passed emissions and inspection). Just heard that previous lien holder just released the title (took 3 weeks!)
Regarding the manual trans.. that's what DD cars are for . Can't wait to swap a 6speed in my RS6 (once the warranty is done next june). So actually, will probably happen Winter 2014, don't want to have the car down during the summer.
Also, what indy shop are you taking your car to?