How to check condition of the rear end.

If you really want to get sophisticated buy yourself a stethescope. The industry is using these every day to find bearing problems on big trucks. I expect ag. and const. equipment service folks are using it as well.

Before you ever pick up the wrench, know exactly what your going after.

If it does not make excessive noise just let 'er rip.

If it starts making noise then it is time to start being concerned. I've bought lots of old Farmalls and put them right into heavy service and never had any trouble other than rust shaking out of the gas tanks.

If they are buried in the sludge don't worry about them, usually just pieces from an old repair.

Also don't be concerned by a little clear water coming out the drain plug first. That is pretty normal.

If all the oil is brown it needs to be changed.

The PTO cover removal will only give you visual access to the axle part of the transaxle. Take off of the belt pulley or the plate that takes its place to view transmission.

If you don't want to make or buy gaskets, use the stuff that comes in a tube.

If you can't find tractor fluid at TSC, somebody in charge of inventory is not on the ball. Either that or their re-order program is messed up. A good autoparts store, even in NYC, will have it as well. I have even seen it in discount or consumer type autopart outlets. In some parts of the country I'll bet you can get it at Walmart.