Seems like a lot of trouble to get a magnet at the filter: 'I may drill and tap. :devil:'. Then you may REALLY NEED a magnet!

Is the USA filtering method that inferior when it comes down to it? I would think the regular changing of the filter would remove most contaminants from the time the first factory filter is changed out, through the life of the transmission.
I've heard that for HST transmissions in general one of the most important things is to make sure the proper specs fluid is used; for instance with wet brake capabilities, and so on...
Oh its not too much trouble, I enjoy the tinkering. Having a magnet, that can be easily inspected, within this system is a good thing. Most all larger equipment with similar components utilize magnets in a similar fashion. I see it all the time in the drilling, dredging, and marine industry. I wouldn't be surprised if the DKse's lack of magnet over the EX is nothing more than Kioti USA being underfunded and unorganized as compared to Daedong Korea. Perhaps not, but I've seen enough examples in the US to convince me. Every problem I've had with both my DKse's were problems arisen from final assembly in North Carolina, or my dealership mistakes before purchase. Everything from factory Korea has been spot on, and of great quality.
After speaking with MIE yesterday about magnets in the DKse tractors, its only the drain plug magnet. They are aware of the EX's filter magnet, but are unsure of its fitment in the DKse. So, I'll be at work for the next few weeks, but when I get back I'll removed the hyd filter and have a look for a threaded hole to screw the magnet into. I suppose i could even pick up the housing from the EX, which would fit on the DKse. looks to be about $35. I guess I'd only have $100 invested in this, and would be entertaining.
I agree it is very important to use an appropriately rated fluid in the HST. I'll add that I don't think there is anything magical about Kubota, JD, New Holland/Ford, Kioti Hyd/trans fluid. I think its more important to change the oil after so many hours with properly rated oil, than what brand oil you use. Any additive packs that may be in the oil, will certainly shear away after time. Anything smaller than 11 micron (size of the DKse HST filter) will also continue to build and build within the tractor, again highlighting the importance of an oil change and a magnet.
I do realize I'm splitting hairs to some degree, But we all do when it comes down to our field. It's like watching a blockbuster movie involving your profession, You'll notice every deviation and unlikeness, tormenting you the entire movie. But to everyone else, the movie is fine, and you come across as being over analytic.