There is a cable that runs from the steering column to the shifter on a auto, what do you do with it when converting? Also will I be able to keep my cruise control?

There are three screws on the bottom of the steering column. Unscrew them. Lower the steering column all the way down and remove the bottom cover. It just slips off with the tilt handle in the unlocked position. I believe there are two screws on the white plastic piece on the bottom of the steering column. Unscrew them. Carefully remove the white plastic cover and you should be able to remove the ignition lock. Reassembly is the reverse of the removal.

I'm not sure about the other part of your question.

cruise isn't affected by the style of trans.