[Dave01]

I assume you're not using the tractor in the winter. Fall is better, finish off the season, change the oil and filter, stabilize the gas or drain it, fog the engine, etc. I'm not sure I understand what the mice have to do with when you do the change?

I recommend you buy the correct Kohler filter from one of the parts suppliers. They are cheap enough and you don't have to wonder about all the cross-match details. In any case I'd suggest you get away from using Fram filters in anything.