Is is largely possible to transplant a 9/16" with a half inch axle? (i.e.
Are axle cones and lengths reasonably standard between the 2 sizes, with
just the threaded part differing)

I found this online:

http://www.bikeforums.net/archive/in.../t-501811.html

but having never encountered this pedal I don't know if the process is
peculiar to this brand/model.

Any similar success stories?

Any 1/2" pedal recommendations? I don't want aggressive bmx platforms but
neither do I want flats with rubber coated platforms. The principal
stipulation is that they're 'big enough'.