find and replace characters in file names

I need to transfer much of my user folder (home) to a non-mac computer. My problem is that I have become too used to the generous file name allowances on the Mac. Many of my files have characters such as "*" "!" "?" and "|". I know these are problems because they are often wild cards (except the pipe). Is there a way that I can do a find and replace for these characters?

For example, search for all files with an "*" and replace the "*" in the file name with an "@" or a letter? I don't mind having to use the terminal for this (I suspect it will be easier).

Is this possible? Does anyone have any suggestions?

Thank you in advance for any help you may be able to provide.

Mac OS X (10.4.8)