I see the thread is still going so another question . . . .
I drained the fluid figuring I'll just spend the money for a little peace of mind. Also pulled the strainer - very little to no metal flakes (55 hours on the tractor). But - how to get the #%$$^$^ filter off. Hard to get to as it is with the mower deck on and evidently the factory puts the initial filters on tight as a drum. The oil filter I loosened up with a pipe wrench (yes, a pipe wrench) but the transmission filter is tight to the case on one side - no room for anything but a band type wrench. Now these filters are smaller than my car wrench fits so shimmed that with a thick strip of rubber. No luck - the thing is on so tight the band wrench with rubber strip slips before getting sufficient grip. So I bought a wrap up band wrench from the dealer and will try that this weekend. Meanwhile I've been without the tractor for a week and the grass is growing. Any suggestions? Most likely will have to jack the rear of the tractor up for better access (on stands of course).