a noob with some technical questions

[Iceman59718]

Hello Everyone.

I just picked up my 92 SVX this weekend in Seattle. It was rather high mileage (182k), but the fact that it was a 5 speed and in the right price range made it hard to pass up. I think I've wanted one of these cars since the first time I figured out what it is. I decided to buy and SVX after my recent move to Bozeman, Montana left me needing a 4 wheel drive, but still wanting a sports car. What better to satisfy both than an SVX. There are a couple issues with the car that I had questions about. Veterans please don't flame me for not searching. I did search, but didn't find exactly what I was looking for.

My first question is for those of you with the 5 speed conversion. The guy I got the car from had the conversion done at Small Car in 2004 and they installed an '01 WRX transmission. I was wondering if the shifting is supposed to have a rather notchy feel. I've driven many 5 speeds, but I none that really felt like this. I guess notchy is the best way I can describe it. Also, is it normal to hear a lot of gear whine in 5th gear with these transmissions? Does this conversion cause the ABS light to stay on? The next area of concern is with my power steering. It is rather difficult to steer and the steering light is on the dash cluster. I've given it a basic look and noticed it was pushing some fluid out the top of the resevoir. I replaced the o-ring, but it made no difference. Thanks in advance for any help you can give.

-Dave