Oil light/tranny bucking

[korsen]

I've got an issue with an 00 jxi convertible with 68k on it. I just recently had the valve covers replaced because the seal on it broke and was puking up oil. all the fluids are where they need to be in a 2.4 V6 but just today (it was cold out today, like maybe 40ish tonight) I noticed that the light would come on while i'm driving - normally it comes on just when i stop.

The light will stay on until 1500rpm in first gear, and then won't disappear until after 2000rpm in second and the automatics electronic 3rd gear. Didn't notice in fourth because i'm on the highway obviously and that's over 2200rpm on cruise. Ideas why it would need over 2k to vanish like this with all fluids normal?

and occassionally when I come to a stop the tranny will buck like it catches first gear too early but i only notice it catching <10mph

also, taking a corner at speed the wheel will whine like it's grinding slightly and when I add more power steering fluid it will go away for the most part but not completely - ideas?

and just as a side note - does anyone know how to get more horsepower out of modifying the stock equipment? as in, not replacing anything with aftermarket units? or is there anything i could remove from the car to reduce weight that i cannot see or need?

thanks for any ideas.
i've read the other threads on the oil light thing but my issue is different today - it was identical where it would turn off at a stop but not anymore.

[bpolley]

Sounds like your pick up tube might be clogged or possibly starting to gum up inside. Try running a couple of Rislone treatments through it when changing your oil. Or a quart of keresone will work as well.

As far as your tranny problem sounds like what mine did a while back. Needed a tranny rebuild! That sucked!