Not sure that flow control valves were prevalent on all 80's vintage tractors? If present, they are rockshaft
Control speed lever next to the raise/lower lever. Did the linkage operate when you made the purchase agreement, Bought from dealer, auction, indrividual? Perhaps consult the purchase source?
Believe the under seat forward screw type was a compact tractor innovation.
As for the the location police, they may be ignored, has no bearing upon your issue.