I've got a recently purchased 1996 850 wagon w/5spd that I'm starting to construct a list of things I'd like to do for it. It's the base model, so my first tendency is to find add-on's from GLT's which will sweeten the ride. I've done some research thus far, but I can't get the AWD forum's search to work worth beans, so I decided to make a new post.

1. I'd like to convert the engine to synthetic oil. I'm fully aware of the infinite dino vs. synthetic debate, so I'd really like to know if there are any 850 specific concerns or beneifits to synthetic in this model.

2. The car manual said my manual transmission already has a synthetic lubricant. How often should I check and/or flush the trans, and is there a better oil to use?

3. My main instrument cluster only has a LCD clock in the bottom center. After reading the manual, I discovered in higher models, you could get one that also had an exterior thermometer as well as a gas mileage tool linked to the computer. Could I change out my clock for one of these units, and if so, where could I get one? Ebay didn't return any decent results.

4. What are the opinions regarding octane gas to run in the 850? The manual recommends 91 octane, but says you can put in 87. What does everyone here think?

5. Are there any decent bright white headlight bulb kits for the 850? Something that isn't a $14 Chinese knockoff found on ebay?

Thanks for any help you can provide.