Changing Rear Differential Oil

So the transmission change went well as soon as I identified the check and fill positions. The nut for checking transmission oil on the side of the tractor was under the left rear brake connecting rod. Was I supposed to disconnect the rod to remove the bolt?

Today I removed and emptied the rear differentials. Now I have to get a long funnel to refill them. Is there an easier way (cleaner way) to remove the pans without spilling a bunch of oil on my driveway? I used a plastic pan that was just about an inch too short on both sides to allow a clean drop of the pan. I guess a bigger pan would be the answer?

I don't use the PTO as of yet but I guess I should change that fluid while I'm at it. Is there a trick to doing that?

Thanks for your input and tips. Even though I felt way out of my element I think I did a pretty good job of this round of maintainence.

I use the tractor about 30 hours a year so far doing a lot of hauling of logs, firewood, horse manure for the garden and riding around the yard for fun and some bottom plowing in my 24X38 garden!

I do, if you can get a wrench and your fingers in there, then no.

Is there an easier way (cleaner way) to remove the pans without spilling a bunch of oil on my driveway?

Not that I know of, you just need a pan that fits.

I don't use the PTO as of yet but I guess I should change that fluid while I'm at it. Is there a trick to doing that?

The pto gets its oil from the transmission. You drain it, and add another pint when you refill the transmission.

You've had it 2 years without a manual?? -- I added nothing that is not in the operator's manual.

So I"m supposed to drain the PTO reservoir and add a pint at the same time as the transmission change? Will I be loosing new trans oil when I drain the PTO? Was the old and new oil mixed when I drained the trans but not the PTO?

Al