Is it possible to convert the SKS to reliably accept and function with AK-47 mags?  I have seen a couple post on folks advertising a booklet depicting how to make the modification, but no details.

Norinco did it with the D model which became the Sporter which I have.
I don't know how cost effective it would be to convert one.

This has been cussed and discussed numerous times here.  In short, the answer is that it can be done.  It is extremely expensive, costing more than the rifle, or a new AK for that matter, and is not very reliable.  Best to enjoy things for what they are and not try to turn them into what they are not.  The D model Norinco is the exception, but then again, they have a government owned factory and an endless supply of engineers to figure these things out.

Spend $160 and buy a Saiga from CDNN and convert that, or just buy an SAR-1.  Trying to convert an SKS is not worht the effort and will generally prove unreliable.

Good enough.  I have a SAR-1 and having a blast with it.  The SKS purchase was on a whim and its an good and accurate shooter.  So we will just keep it the way it is for now.  The whole idea seemed a bit farfetched to me anyway.
Thanks