Well, JimmySisson, I wish it was as you say -- and I wish that tubes had been used. But I bought the tractor in a part of California where freezing is not an issue, and neither are hills. The dealer had not filled a tire before when freezing might be an issue. Their local tire place did the job though. Not, apparently, up to standards for hill country. For now, I'm pleased as punch that my tire is fixed, and I'm saving my money for a good set of chains.
Thanks for your reply, the tip, and the picture of the valves I wish I had.
-ml