Update: I pulled the motor and tranny out today and got the trans apart to look at the speedo gear. It was all chewed up. I really don't think it's the right gear.
Part number used: 32714AA230 - I looked it up and it says it's from an 04' forester with a 4:11 final drive, but it's obviously not working since I tried two and they both didn't mesh well.
People that have done this successfully used the gear from their 98' or 99' impreza and have had no issues. The part number I got was from Bobby at PRE in portland and it worked for him, so I thought it was a reputible source.
I guess I will just drop the $60 on a gear for a 98' impreza and see how it goes together.
Any tranny guys have any suggestions?