So I'm changing the fluid on my 700-r4, and I got the filter out to put the new one in (it more like fell out) and the seal wasn't on it. I tried to pull it down with my finger, but it only came down a little, and now it won't budge. Thing is, it's made of some very hard rubber, so I can't cut it or manipulate it much at all. Think I should just take the seal off the new filter and put it on, or do I really have to get the old one out?

 

Your choice...it can't fall out with the pan on.
..If you want the old one out take a small straight screwdriver and
tap it up in between the seal and the housing.

Or use a cotter pin extractor (looks like a screw driver with a bent over
end)