Gearbox Types
Re-manufactured Gearboxes
An existing gearbox casing is stripped, cleaned and tested for excessive wear or distortion. All moving parts are replaced with new Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) components where available or new parts are machined to the manufacturer's specification. The gearbox casing is then re-assembled with new bearings, synchronizer rings and seals along with any additional required components,. All internal clearances and end floats are then reset to the manufacturer’s original specifications. The gearbox is then bench tested and prepared for fitting.
Refurbished / Reconditioned Gearboxes
Either the customer's gearbox or a donor gearbox is stripped of components and the case dipped in acid to restore it to a bare metal finish. Less vital moving parts within reasonable tolerance are cleaned and prepared for re-use. Damaged or worn components are replaced with parts commensurate with manufacturer's tolerances. The transmission core is then re-assembled with new bearings, synchronizer rings and seals along with any additional required components,. All internal clearances and end floats are then reset to the manufacturer’s original specifications. The gearbox is then bench tested and prepared for fitting.
Used Gearboxes
Occasionally documented low mileage gearboxes can be obtained from reputable sources where a vehicle has been deemed an insurance "write-off " for reasons other than mechanical failure, like crash damaged or stolen recovered vehicles. These units are cleaned, bench tested and prepared for fitting.
New Gearboxes
For vehicles still in current or recent manufacture new gearboxes can be purchased and fitted, sometimes under manufacturer's warranty.
The type of gearbox you choose to acquire will depend on various factors;
- Affordability; Each gearbox solution commands a different cost due to the expense of parts and level of labour involved.
- Viability; Some options, especially new gearboxes may not be a viable option in relation to the vehicles age and value.
- Availability; for older and more unusual marques new parts become obsolete reducing the availability of "off the shelf" units and may require components to be machined to the original specification.