I think 35 years is a good reason for the tranny to grind a little bit /forums/images/graemlins/smirk.gif
If it has a drain plug its likely to be on the bottom, take a look there if there isnt one there dont worry bout it.
I have a Wheelhorse that ginds, it isnt a problem mostly, pulled it apart and there was nothing wrong with it.
PS, read your thread about the exhaust, glowing red is wicked man! So how much more does the throttle open, or did the governor 'fall' off? /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif