[Replicant]

The login is a different story. The dropdown is actually an IFRAME linked to "forum base/auth/login". There is javascript involved on the sizing of the container and hiding it until clicked. While it's not impossible to do, it will take some research and experimentation to get the result you are looking for. Optionally, you can put a background around the login text to make it look like a button and stand out.

The default operation already works as it should but the presentation sucks. Personally I think if the user is a guest, the login dialog should be visible at all times but should be hidden as it does now when a user is logged in. It shouldn't be too difficult to chase down the javascript and make up a new script to override the default operation. You should stay away from editing core javascript files as they will be overwritten when you upgrade. Sometimes, it's necessary to edit them in which case you will need to keep track of your changes and reapply them on upgrades. This is actually something I've wanted to implement on my forum but haven't as of yet. I'll get to it in due time.......but don't hold your breath.