Transmission Rebuilds—A Step-By-Step Guide

Not every transmission shop or general automotive shop is capable of performing full custom transmission rebuilds in-house. At Ralph’s Transmission, this service is one of our specialties. A rebuilt transmission can offer better long-term performance if the work is done right. It can be less expensive than buying a brand new transmission and it can be less risky than installing a used or refurbished transmission. The purpose of a transmission rebuild is to get your transmission running like new again. This is why we back our service with an industry-leading 3 Year, 100,000 Mile Warranty. If you have any problems with your rebuilt transmission, Ralph’s Transmission has you covered!

So, what exactly does the transmission rebuild process entail. Here is a brief step-by-step guide to help you understand the procedures involved.

1. Remove the Transmission

The transmission is generally removed when a full internal inspection is required. This means there is internal damage. We must take the transmission out of the vehicle and open it up to see exactly what’s wrong inside. We identify all components that need to be replaced or repaired. If the extent of the damage is serious enough, we will recommend a transmission rebuild and our service advisors will give you a price quote for the specific parts and labor. We won’t proceed with any repairs until you know our recommendations and have authorized the work.

2. Dismantle the Transmission

Once a transmission rebuild has been authorized, the transmission rebuild specialists at Ralph’s Transmission will completely dismantle the entire transmission. Every single component will be removed and catalogued. Each part will be properly inspected for any damage or wear, so we know which pieces are still in good shape and which need to be replaced.

3. Gather New Parts

We stock many replacement transmission components at our Modesto shop, including new and refurbished torque converters (the most common cause of transmission failure in automatic vehicles). If something specific or special is required for a certain vehicle make, model or transmission system, we will order it and make sure it is delivered as quickly as possible.

4. Clean Reusable Parts

Any transmission components that are still in good shape will be professionally cleaned before reinstallation. We have high-tech cleaning machines and very thorough procedures to make sure everything is in the best possible condition before the transmission is rebuilt.

5. Rebuild the Transmission

Now comes the fun part. Our rebuild experts will reassemble the transmission, piece by piece. All damaged components will be replaced with new or refurbished ones. All healthy parts will be reinstalled after they are cleaned up, relubricated, etc. This is a very thorough and detail-oriented process to make sure each component is put back exactly where it belongs.

6. Reinstall the Transmission

Once the transmission has been completely rebuilt, it will be reinstalled carefully back into the vehicle.

7. Final Road Test

One of our technicians will take the vehicle out for a final road test to confirm that the transmission is working properly. Any diagnostic fault codes will be reset and we take extra precautions to ensure that the rebuilt transmission is running like new again. Our service advisor will walk you through the warranty program when you come to pick up your vehicle. If you have any questions, don’t be afraid to ask.

That is our transmission rebuild process in a nutshell. It may sound simple when explained like this, but there is a reason why many auto shops will not perform this service in-house and/or back it with such a strong warranty. It takes skilled transmission experts, and we are very thankful to have such an amazing team of technicians at Ralph’s Transmission!

If you have transmission problems, bring your vehicle into Ralph’s Transmission for a free initial inspection. Call us today at 209.526.1909 or schedule your service appointment online.

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