I just did a re-install and it took me 10 minutes. 
So I would guess I would take you at MOST 30 minutes.
SSL is configured on the server side. To enable CS-cart to use SSL is 3 tick boxes.
kogi
yes 1/2 hour should be enough to get the store running - adding products and categories once you do one or two takes about 1-2 minutes per product.
no real manual per say to step through
once installed - yes, set taxes, shipping and payment options - create page content and then categories and products -
not really that difficult and most items are within 2-3 clicks
good luck