I'd just keep up on the oil changing and lubing any fittings, check under the deck for wobbly blade spindles, or any untoward noises from same. Sharpen the blades, and run it until it decides to retire! Give it better care than the previous owner gave it, and run it until it finally gives up the ghost! Heck, you won't have much invested in it.

One could remove the transaxle and change the fluid if you were so inclined. Likely not necessary with the use it has gotten. Good time to clean the cooling fins of the engine and transaxle plus check the traction belt. No valve or timing adjustment required. Be sure to let that Indiana air out of the tires and put some fresh NC air in when you get there!

You mean fill it up with air that is mostly water? Will that cause them to rot faster? ;-)

Thank you for your response. Like I said the tractor was well maintained when my father had it and while it has been mine.

This fall when you can go outside, I will get the JD maintenance kit and replace everything.

With the tractor about 10 years old, I may get a scratch repair and work on the plastic hood. There is not many nor any major scratches, but it would look better.