Good question on the transmission. The former owner said it is a 9 speed although I have gone through 5 gears on the low and 5 on the high. Is 1st low really not used much and that is why it is a called a 9 speed ? I start in low 5 , pull the T handle to get it in high range and shift it as a 5 speed after that. Of course that is empty most of the time. If it is loaded with some hay I may start in a lower gear on a hill. Is there a number on the trans to verify what model ? I know the cable pull to change from low to high actuates an air switch on the trans. Thanks.