Transmissions

What to Consider When Choosing a Transmission Replacement

Replacing a transmission is a big decision—both financially and for the long-term performance of your vehicle. Whether you’re dealing with a failing transmission or looking for an upgrade, choosing the right replacement can save you time, money, and future headaches. Here’s what you need to know to make the best decision.

  1. Know Your Options

There are three main choices when replacing a transmission:

  • New (OEM) Transmission – Factory-fresh but comes at a premium price.
  • Used Transmission – More affordable but comes with unknown history and wear.
  • Remanufactured Transmission – A cost-effective, high-quality option that is rebuilt to meet or exceed OEM specifications.

A remanufactured transmission gives you like-new reliability at a fraction of the cost of a new one, making it a smart choice for most drivers.

  1. Demand High-Quality Testing

Not all remanufactured transmissions are created equal. The best ones undergo extensive testing, including:

  • Dynamometer (Dyno) Testing – Simulates real-world driving conditions.
  • Pressure & Leak Testing – Ensures proper hydraulic function and seal integrity.
  • Full Component Replacement – Worn-out parts, seals, gaskets, and friction plates should be replaced—not just cleaned.

When buying a replacement, ask about testing procedures to avoid costly issues down the road.

  1. Make Sure It’s Covered by a Strong Warranty

A transmission is a major investment, so a solid warranty is a must. Look for:

  • Parts & Labor Coverage – Some warranties only cover parts, leaving you responsible for labor costs.
  • Nationwide Protection – You want support no matter where you are.
  • Transferable Coverage – If you sell your vehicle, a transferable warranty adds resale value.

A great warranty shows confidence in the product—don’t settle for anything less.

  1. Ensure the Right Fit for Your Vehicle

Even if a transmission is labeled as compatible with your car, small variations matter. Double-check:

  • Engine compatibility (e.g., 4-cylinder vs. V6).
  • Transmission control module integration for smooth shifting.
  • Software updates that might be required after installation.

A transmission that fits perfectly will ensure smooth performance and prevent installation issues.

  1. Choose a Trusted Supplier

Not all remanufacturers follow the same quality standards. Before purchasing:

  • Read customer reviews for real-world reliability.
  • Look at BBB ratings and industry certifications.
  • Choose a supplier with a proven track record of high-performance rebuilds.

A reputable supplier ensures you’re getting a transmission that lasts.

Ready for a Reliable Transmission?

Don’t take chances on an unproven transmission. Get a remanufactured transmission built to perform—one that’s been rigorously tested, backed by a strong warranty, and guaranteed to fit your vehicle.

Shop our remanufactured transmissions now and get back on the road with confidence!

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

The Evolution of Power: The History of Engines and Transmissions

Introduction: The roar of an engine, the smooth shift of a transmission—these are the sounds that drive us forward, literally and figuratively. Behind the scenes of every vehicle’s powertrain lies a fascinating journey of innovation. This blog dives into an intriguing slice of automotive history: the evolution of engines and transmissions, where genius engineering met relentless determination to revolutionize the way we move.

The Evolution of Power: The History of Engines and Transmissions The First Combustion Engine: Lenoir’s Revolutionary Leap The story begins in 1860 with Jean-Joseph Étienne Lenoir, a Belgian inventor who created the first internal combustion engine powered by gas. While crude by today’s standards, Lenoir’s engine laid the foundation for Nikolaus Otto’s revolutionary four-stroke engine in 1876. Otto’s design became the blueprint for modern combustion engines, introducing efficiency and reliability to a rapidly growing automotive industry.

 

The Advent of Automatic Transmissions: Hydra-Matic History Fast forward to 1939, when General Motors debuted the Hydra-Matic—the world’s first fully automatic transmission. It was a game-changer, eliminating the need for manual clutch operation and making driving accessible to more people. The Hydra-Matic not only simplified driving but also became a wartime hero during World War II, powering military vehicles across battlefields.

Diesel Power: The Rise of Heavy-Duty Engines By the mid-20th century, Rudolf Diesel’s invention of the diesel engine gained traction. Initially designed for industrial use, diesel engines found their way into automotive applications, offering unparalleled durability and efficiency. Heavy-duty trucks, buses, and even some passenger vehicles began to rely on the robust performance of diesel powerplants.

The Muscle Car Era: Performance Engines Take Center Stage The 1960s and ’70s saw the rise of the muscle car era, a time when horsepower ruled the road. Legendary engines like the Chevrolet 427 Big Block, Ford’s 429 Cobra Jet, and Mopar’s 426 HEMI became icons of American automotive culture. Paired with high-performance manual transmissions, these powertrains became the heart of the muscle car revolution.

Conclusion: A Legacy of Innovation From Lenoir’s first engine to the modern diesel and performance powerplants, the history of engines and transmissions reflects humanity’s relentless drive to innovate. Each breakthrough has shaped not just how we travel but also how we interact with technology. At Gearhead Engines, we honor this legacy by keeping these powertrains running strong—whether it’s a vintage V8 or a modern heavy-duty diesel.

Contact a Gearhead sales representative for all your powertrain product needs.
Call Today 800-508-5999 or Request a Quote here.

 

What To Expect From a Remanufactured Transmission

What To Expect From a Remanufactured Transmission

Car enthusiasts often look for cost-effective and reliable ways to maintain and improve their vehicles, especially when it comes to critical components like transmissions. Remanufactured transmissions offer a compelling alternative to buying new or used, combining various benefits of both options. Learn more about what to expect from a remanufactured transmission.

What Is a Remanufactured Transmission?

A remanufactured transmission is an existing transmission with parts that are refurbished, replaced, or machined to create a like-new system. These parts, along with the transmission case, are cleaned, tested, and assembled to meet original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specifications. The process ensures a high-quality product that operates as close to new as possible. In addition, the manufacturer may offer a warranty for better peace of mind when purchasing a remanufactured transmission.

Benefits of a Remanufactured Transmission

Why opt for a remanufactured transmission over brand-new parts from the dealership or a cheaper used option? Ultimately, remanufactured transmissions offer plenty of benefits worth considering when shopping for replacement parts.

Cost-Effectiveness: Saving Dollars Without Sacrificing Quality

One of the most immediate draws of a remanufactured transmission is its affordability. The cost of remanufacturing a transmission is often comparable, if not cheaper, than that of a used one, and the lower cost can make a difference for those needing a reliable replacement without breaking the bank. This type of transmission is also assembled while maintaining high-quality standards.

Quality and Reliability: The Right Balance of Old and New

Rebuilt transmissions are not just a patchwork of old and new parts; they undergo rigorous quality control processes, ensuring that each component meets the necessary standards. This leads to a more reliable final product than a used transmission, which may still harbor wear and tear that eventually leads to failure. The meticulous remanufacturing process also means that your transmission is thoroughly restored to optimal performance, enhancing the quality of your daily driving experiences.

Comparing Your Options

When considering a replacement transmission, it’s important to weigh the pros and cons of buying new, used, or remanufactured. Each has its merits, but for many car enthusiasts, the advantages of a remanufactured transmission can be the most compelling.

Price Point: A Middle Ground for Your Wallet

Compared to a brand-new transmission, a remanufactured one could save you quite a bit. On the other hand, although used transmissions may seem cheaper upfront, they usually come with a shorter lifespan and higher long-term costs due to the potential for frequent repairs or a shortened overall life.

Warranty and Longevity: Peace of Mind With Your Purchase

Most remanufactured transmissions come with a warranty, ranging from a few years to the lifetime of your vehicle, depending on the supplier. This stands in sharp contrast to many used transmissions, which are often sold as-is and come with little to no protection. While new transmissions typically have the best warranties, a remanufactured transmission with a solid guarantee can provide a more cost-effective and reliable solution.

Understanding what to expect from a remanufactured transmission is key to making an informed decision for your vehicle’s maintenance needs. For more information on the benefits of this replacement option, browse our extensive selection of remanufactured parts today. At Gearhead Engines, we carry a wide range of popular options, including remanufactured Dodge transmissions, Ford engines, and much more!

Signs Your Vehicle’s Transmission Needs Attention

VIN vs. ESN

Your Chevy’s transmission is a vital component that ensures smooth gear shifting and contributes to your car’s overall performance and reliability. Unfortunately, they are also prone to various complications. Learn the four signs your vehicle’s transmission needs attention in this article.

Delayed or Rough Shifting

Your Chevy’s transmission might be warning you of an issue if it hesitates before changing gears or if you notice a significant jerk or shudder during the shift. These symptoms can manifest as a delay in acceleration when you press the gas pedal or as a rough transition between gears you can feel and hear. Such shifting issues can indicate low transmission fluid, the need for its replacement due to deterioration, or more complex problems within the transmission system that require professional diagnostics.

Leaking Fluid

A fluid leak is one of the most straightforward indicators of transmission trouble. Transmission fluid is typically a bright red color, although it may appear darker or even have a brownish hue as it ages. Seeing fluid under your car, especially where you park it for extended periods, could be a sign of a leak. Fluid leaks are more than an inconvenience—it’s your vehicle’s way of crying out for attention. A leak can lead to insufficient fluid levels, which is essential for lubricating and cooling the transmission’s internal components.

Burning Smell

A distinct burning odor emanating from your vehicle is not a sign you should ignore. This smell can often coincide with an overheating transmission, where the fluid breaks down, losing its efficiency in lubricating and cooling the system. Allowing this to continue damages the transmission’s components and can lead to safety concerns. It is imperative to have a professional inspect your Chevrolet to prevent further damage and ensure your safety on the road if you detect this sharp, acrid scent, especially under the strain of shifting gears or after extended driving periods.

Strange Noises

A humming, buzzing, or whining sound when the car is in neutral could indicate an issue with the transmission’s components, such as worn bearings or gear teeth. Manual transmissions may exhibit a grinding noise when shifting gears, which suggests possible clutch adjustment issues or more severe wear and tear. Your Chevrolet needs a thorough transmission check-up if your car sounds off-key and these noises come with different transmission symptoms.

Pay attention to your Chevy and look out for these three signs your vehicle’s transmission needs attention. Consider our selection of quality Chevy remanufactured transmissions here at Gearhead Engines when you do need a replacement.

Caring for Your Reman Transmission

Care for your Gearhead Remanufactured Transmission

Being stuck on the road because your transmission fails isn’t anyone’s idea of fun.

If you’ve had transmission problems, you should always make sure your mechanic gives your car, truck, or SUV a thorough inspection. Your service professional should provide you with reasons there are issues with your transmission. A number of components in your vehicle may end up damaging it and, if not fixed, might result in the failure of your next transmission.

Make sure your transmission fluid is serviced regularly

Modern engineering advances, like the methods employed to remanufacture Gearhead Engines, now extend transmission service procedures to every 100,000 miles. So make sure your transmission fluid is serviced properly and on time.

When your transmission fluid is changed, make sure a reputable facility, shop, or dealership completes the service. These facilities ensure that the transmission filter (the component that traps dirt and metals in your fluid) and the fluid itself will be changed. Some shops may only “flush” your transmission, which could cause issues later on.

The role of a transmission cooler

Most heavy-duty vehicles and some light duty vehicles are equipped with what is called a transmission cooler. This part makes sure the transmission fluid doesn’t reach high temperatures during heavy driving conditions – like when you’re towing a trailer. And high temperatures can cause transmission fluid to break down and not function like it should.

Transmission cooler lines and the transmission cooler itself could leak. This can cause the vital “lifeblood” of the transmission to fall to dangerous levels and that could cause damage. Cooler issues may cause high-fluid temperature issues because of limited flow though the cooler assembly.

Be aware of conditions and your driving habits

Driving conditions/habits are sometimes some of the easiest ways to extend your transmission’s life.
Driving conditions/habits are sometimes some of the easiest ways to extend your transmission’s life.

  • Make sure all acceleration is done at normal and expected speeds.
  • Avoid abrupt start/stop driving conditions.
  • Don’t overload your vehicle constantly, towing a trailer or accelerating to high speeds. Driving like this all the time (whether it’s a contractors’ truck or someone speeding away from stop sign) can potentially shorten the transmission’s life considerably.

Any abuse can damage transmission fluid, possibly burn out transmission clutches, and in the worst case scenario, cause internal components to break.

Wrapping things up

As you care for your vehicle, take the time to inspect your driveway or garage for possible transmission fluid leaks and ensure your transmission fluid is serviced. By following these guidelines, you’ll make sure it functions properly for many years to come.

As the saying goes…

“An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure.”

If you have to replace your transmission

In the worst case scenario, something may happen to your transmission and it will need to be replaced. Your first stop should be the Gearhead Engines website where you (or your licensed repair facility) can find the exact remanufactured transmission for your needs. You’ll get a transmission engineered to the latest specifications that ensure your new remanufactured transmission lasts.

Of course, Gearhead Engines stands by our remanufactured transmissions with a nationwide, fully-transferable, 3-year, unlimited mile warranty and offers no-fault protection add-ons that extend that coverage.

So when you consider replacing your transmission, remember to GO with Gearhead Engines and More.

BROWSE OUR TRANSMISSIONS

 

Six Ways to Get the Best Reman Deal

Get the BEST deal on Gearhead remanufactured products

When you’re shopping for a replacement engine, transmission, cylinder heads, etc., it’s important to make sure you’re comparing products “apples to apples.” As you make up your mind, here are six details you won’t want to overlook.

Is it just rebuilt, or is it fully remanufactured?

Reman products are more accurately compared with new.
Rebuilt products are basically products that have had some new parts installed. They still may retain a number of used components, and they’ve had little (if any) machine work done.

On the other hand, remanufactured products are more accurately compared with new – and sometimes better than new. They’re built using all-new components, and they’re machined to current OE specifications or better. Nothing is left untouched.

How complete is a remanufactured build?

Does the engine include things like timing components and gasket sets? Gearhead remanufactured engines do.

Are you getting all the TSB (Technical Service Bulletin) updates?

These updates are improvements to the original design issued by the OE manufacturers. Gearhead remanufactured products include every TSB update.

Have the products been tested? How well?

Every product from Gearhead Engines comes sim-tested to verify proper function and performance.

Do remanufactured products come with warranties? How good are they?

This is important, because warranties can vary hugely between companies. Gearhead remanufactured product warranties are trusted and dependable and range from 12 months to three years with no-fault protection add-ons in some cases. Be sure check out our warranties and feel free to ask if you have additional questions.

What about shipping?

Gearhead Engines charges a low, FLAT shipping fee with every product, and we’ll always pick up the core for return FREE of charge.

BROWSE OUR PRODUCT CATALOG TODAY!