Thanks guys...I really can't wait to get this baby back up and running. I've spent a lot of time going over the machine, and the parts manual, just to get a feel for where everything is. I'm hoping that it's simply a linkage in the shuttle shift control, but may try to put a gauge on a line from the pump that supplies the shuttle shift to see if it has pressure...luckily that pump is available, and it's only $250, if it's bad.
I have rechecked the fluid in the tranny, and it seems to be full, or close enough it should work. I've confirmed it's a hydraulic shuttle, and when you move the lever, or the linkage, it's not connected to anything.
Funny thing, but a mechanic at work is dying to buy it from me already. I may work a deal where he gets the tranny sorted out in exchange for use so he can fix up his dad's pond. I also happened to find a Craigslist ad for a similar machine (manual shuttle) locally, and they're asking $7500 for it!