Good news! It is running and driving. I took the release valves out and knocked on my work bench to get the buttons up. I wire brushed around them and lubed them too. I changed the hydro fluid and replaced the filter. That's all it took. Drove it out of the barn and around the block. Runs great. Speed and direction changes are nice and smooth, and the no lurch or creep. Thanks to you all for your help and suggestions. I guess these old Cubs are as good as we say they are. New battery, fresh gas, hydro fluid and filter and the "parts tractor" I bought is a runner!

Now you can enjoy it for many years! :beerchug: