Finding the right gearbox suppliers in Melbourne can feel like a bit of a hunt. Whether you need a whole new unit, someone to fix up your current one, or just a specific part that seems impossible to find, the choices can be overwhelming. This guide is here to help cut through the confusion and point you towards some of the best places. We’ve rounded up companies known for doing good work, having a wide selection of parts, and generally being reliable across the country. So, if your transmission is acting up or you’re thinking about an upgrade, take a look at these guys.
Key Takeaways
- Wholesale Automatic Transmissions has a huge range of automatic transmission parts, including Australian-made heavy-duty coolers and torque converter lock-up kits, fitting many different cars.
- Heavy Automatics is a main distributor for Allison Transmissions in Australia, supporting and supplying parts for heavy machinery like trucks and buses from their many locations.
- Mal Wood Automotive is an official Elite TREMEC Distributor with over 40 years of experience, selling TREMEC transmissions and a wide variety of driveline parts for different car models.
- All Drive Subaroo works with Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG) to provide tough, reliable motorsport billet gearboxes for Subaru vehicles, including custom builds.
- Many suppliers offer specialized services like diagnostics, repairs, rebuilds, and upgrades, along with parts, to keep your vehicle running right.
1. Wholesale Automatic Transmissions
When you’re in the market for automatic transmission parts, especially for those tougher 4WDs and SUVs, Wholesale Automatic Transmissions is a name that pops up frequently. They’ve been in the game for over three decades, meaning they’ve pretty much seen it all when it comes to keeping these complex systems running right. A big plus is their huge stock of parts, and a good amount of it is actually designed and manufactured right here in Australia. This is particularly great for things like heavy-duty oil coolers and torque converter lock-up kits.
They don’t limit themselves to just one or two brands either. So, whether you’re driving a Toyota LandCruiser, a Nissan Patrol (they’re apparently one of the biggest global retailers for these two), or even a Ford, Holden, or Mazda, chances are they’ll have something suitable. They also stock some US-designed parts, like TransGo kits and PML transmission pans, which is handy if you’re hunting for something specific.
Here’s a quick rundown of some of the items they typically have available:
- Australian-designed and made heavy-duty transmission oil coolers
- Torque converter lock-up kits
- Transmission temperature gauges
- Heavy-duty valve bodies (including Nomad, Extreme, and Full Manual options)
- Custom-built torque converters
- Manual to automatic conversion kits
- Standalone transmission control systems from HGM COMPUSHIFT
Sourcing the correct automatic transmission parts is key to a successful repair or upgrade. Don’t cut corners on quality; the longevity and performance of your vehicle depend on it. Look for suppliers who can provide detailed information about the parts they offer and who have a good reputation for customer service and product knowledge.
2. Heavy Automatics
When you’ve got serious work to do, like hauling big loads or operating heavy machinery, you need a gearbox that won’t quit. That’s where Heavy Automatics really shines. They’re a big deal in Australia for Allison Transmissions, which are basically the workhorses of the automatic gearbox world. These things are built tough and reliable, perfect for all sorts of demanding jobs.
Heavy Automatics is the official distributor for Allison Transmissions all over Australia. They’ve got loads of experience, dealing with everything from trucks and buses to farm equipment – pretty much anything that needs a solid automatic gearbox. They have five big workshops spread out, so they can help out teams pretty much anywhere. Plus, they keep a massive stock of parts, over $10 million worth, so finding what you need is usually pretty straightforward. They really do cover all the bases for automatic transmission needs.
They stock a huge range of Allison Transmissions, suitable for on-highway, off-highway, and even defence applications. So, whether you’re running a fleet of delivery vans or a fleet of mining trucks, they’ve likely got something that fits. They also supply remanufactured units, which can be a smart way to save some cash without skimping on quality. And don’t worry about finding the right bits; they stock genuine Allison parts, so you know you’re getting the real deal. If you’re looking for professional service for your truck transmission, give them a call at 03 9077 5661.
Here’s a quick look at what they handle:
- Trucks and Buses: Keeping commercial fleets moving smoothly.
- Agricultural Equipment: Ensuring farm machinery can handle tough jobs.
- Mining and Construction: Providing robust transmissions for demanding environments.
- Defence Applications: Supplying reliable gearboxes for critical operations.
Allison transmissions are known for their fully automatic operation, meaning no clutch pedal and simpler driving. They also feature adaptive shift technology that adjusts gear changes based on how the vehicle is being used, helping with fuel efficiency and extending the life of the transmission. This makes them a top choice for many heavy-duty applications where performance and reliability are key.
3. Mal Wood Automotive
Mal Wood Automotive, or MWA as they’re often called, has been a fixture in the Australian driveline and transmission world for more than 40 years. They really know their way around fixing and upgrading gearboxes, especially if you’re after TREMEC units. In fact, they’re an official Elite TREMEC Distributor, which means they’ve got the inside scoop on everything TREMEC.
What sets MWA apart is that they don’t just sell parts; they also design and build their own stuff. You can find all sorts of things from gearsticks to clutch master cylinder kits, all made to help your car run better. They stock a huge variety of genuine TREMEC parts, but also have components for 4WDs, Supras, and older 4-speed transmissions. Plus, they have a whole section dedicated to driveline parts like clutch kits, hydraulics, driveshafts, and flywheels that fit a lot of different car models.
MWA prides itself on a 100% quality guarantee for both their workmanship and the parts they use. This gives you a good bit of confidence when you’re spending money on your vehicle’s driveline.
If you’re into classic cars or custom builds, MWA seems to have a solution. They mention they can find the best fix at a fair price, whether your car is old, new, standard, or modified, for performance or off-road use. They also keep things fresh by regularly updating their ‘What’s New’ page with their latest projects and components, so it’s worth checking out if you’re looking for something specific or just want to see what they’re up to.
Here’s a quick look at what they focus on:
- TREMEC Gearbox Specialists: As an Elite Distributor, they have extensive knowledge and stock of TREMEC products.
- Driveline Components: A wide range of parts including clutch kits, hydraulics, driveshafts, and flywheels.
- Custom & Performance Upgrades: Solutions for classic cars, modified vehicles, and off-road applications.
- In-House Design & Manufacturing: They create their own performance-oriented parts and accessories.
4. All Drive Subaroo
When you’ve got a Subaru and you’re thinking about its gearbox, All Drive Subaroo (ADS) is a name that comes up pretty often. These guys really know their Subarus, so they have a good grasp on what makes those transmissions work. They offer a few different service levels, from basic rebuilt gearboxes to more robust remanufactured units.
Their Level 3 remanufactured gearboxes are built to be tougher than what came from the factory. This is a pretty big deal if you tend to drive your Subaru a bit harder, maybe for some off-roading or just spirited driving. They say they have one of the lowest failure rates out there, which is always a good sign when you’re looking at transmission work.
Here’s a quick rundown of what they provide:
- Level 1 – Economy Choice: This is a standard rebuilt gearbox. They use tested and reconditioned OEM parts, mixing new and serviced factory internals. It’s a solid option if you’re on a tighter budget but still want something reliable. It comes with an 8-month or 10,000km warranty.
- Level 3 – Remanufactured: This is where they really beef things up. These boxes are stronger than new OEM ones and are put together by specialists. They come with a 24-month or 50,000km warranty, which is pretty decent.
- Level 4 – Performance Dual Range: For the serious enthusiast, this option uses the strongest dual-range gears available. It’s built for extreme off-road applications where you need maximum grunt.
ADS really stresses how important it is to get the correct gearbox for your specific Subaru model. They mention that many Subaru gearboxes look alike but have small differences that can cause major issues if they aren’t matched properly. Using the wrong ratios, for example, can end up damaging your differentials, and that’s a repair bill nobody wants.
They work with Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG) to create strong, reliable billet gearboxes for racing and off-roading. They also have knowledge in dual-range gearboxes and conversion kits for both turbo and non-turbo models. If you’re having transmission troubles, it’s worth checking out All Drive Subaroo to see if they have a fix for your Subaru.
5. Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG)
When Subaru started making those WRX and STI models, people saw the potential for racing right away. With their all-wheel drive and balanced weight, they were already pretty quick. But when you start pushing them for drag racing or rally, with engines putting out way more power, the stock gearboxes just couldn’t handle it. They’d break, especially in second and third gears. Even the STI’s six-speed boxes, while better, still weren’t tough enough for that kind of abuse.
That’s where Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes, or PPG, comes in. Founded back in 2000, they’ve become a big name in Australia for making super strong gearboxes, especially for competition. They’ve got a solid reputation for building gearboxes that are both strong and reliable, which is exactly what you need when you’re pushing your car to the limit. They’ve even got a bunch of race wins to prove it.
PPG makes different kinds of gearboxes. For serious racing, they have pure billet steel straight-cut dog engagement boxes. These are built for extreme conditions. They also make helical synchro billet steel gearsets that are quieter and smoother than the original parts but way stronger. More recently, they’ve developed a six-speed sequential dog-engagement box for racing, too. All their gearboxes use high-quality billet steel gearsets, making them a significant upgrade over stock Subaru parts, even the helical synchro versions.
Here’s a look at what goes into a typical PPG billet gearbox:
- High-grade billet steel for gears
- Straight-cut or helical gear designs
- Dog engagement for quick shifts (racing models)
- Reinforced casings and components
While these billet gearboxes are incredibly strong, it’s important to remember they’re built for performance. They aren’t designed for high mileage daily driving. In racing situations, these boxes are often taken apart and rebuilt regularly to keep them in top shape. For street use, the helical synchro billet gear sets are a good option, offering a balance of strength and smoother operation, but they still require using the clutch for shifting.
PPG gearboxes are a serious upgrade for anyone looking to get the most out of their Subaru in a motorsport setting. They’re built tough to handle the power and stress that comes with competitive driving.
6. TREMEC Transmissions
When you’re talking about serious manual gearboxes, especially for performance cars, TREMEC is a name that keeps coming up. They’ve built a reputation for making some really tough transmissions that can handle a lot of power. You’ll often find them in muscle cars and other high-performance vehicles, and for good reason. They just seem to hold up.
TREMEC is particularly known for a couple of their series. The TKO line, like the TKO 500 and TKO 600, are popular choices for people upgrading older cars that didn’t come with the best transmissions from the factory. They offer better gear ratios and the strength needed for more powerful engines. Then there’s the T56, and its beefier sibling, the T56 Magnum. These are six-speed units that are pretty much standard in many performance cars and a go-to for custom builds. They’re designed to take a beating and keep going.
Here’s a quick rundown of what makes TREMEC a solid choice:
- Robust Construction: They use good materials to build transmissions that are strong enough for high horsepower and torque.
- Performance Gearing: Their gear ratios are usually well-chosen to help with acceleration or make highway cruising a bit more comfortable, depending on the specific model.
- Proven Reliability: TREMEC has been around for a while and has a track record of making transmissions that last, even when pushed hard.
- Wide Application: While they’re famous for performance cars, their gearboxes show up in other types of vehicles too, showing they’re pretty versatile.
If you’re looking to upgrade an older vehicle or build something with a bit more grunt, a TREMEC transmission is definitely something to look into. They’re a dependable option for anyone who appreciates a good manual gearbox and wants it to last.
While TREMEC is a brand you can often find through specialized dealers, it’s worth noting that companies like Mal Wood Automotive in Melbourne are official Elite TREMEC Distributors. This means they have direct access to a wide range of TREMEC parts and components, and they really know their stuff when it comes to these transmissions.
7. Automatic Transmission Parts
When your automatic gearbox needs a bit of TLC, finding the right parts is half the battle. It’s not just about grabbing whatever fits; you need components that are built to last and perform. Think of your transmission as the heart of your vehicle’s drivetrain – it needs quality parts to keep pumping. Whether you’re doing a full rebuild, a minor repair, or just looking to upgrade, the selection of parts available can make a huge difference.
There’s a whole world of parts out there, from basic seals and gaskets to more complex bits like torque converters and valve bodies. For many, especially those with older vehicles or specific performance goals, sourcing these can be tricky. You might need parts for a common Holden or Ford, or perhaps something more niche like a LandCruiser or a Patrol. The good news is, many Australian suppliers specialise in these areas, offering both genuine and aftermarket options.
Sourcing the correct automatic transmission parts is key to a successful repair or upgrade. Don’t cut corners on quality; the longevity and performance of your vehicle depend on it.
Here’s a quick look at what you might be searching for:
- Seals and Gaskets: These stop leaks and keep everything running smoothly.
- Clutches and Bands: These are the workhorses that engage and disengage gears.
- Torque Converters: The fluid coupling that connects the engine to the transmission.
- Valve Bodies: The ‘brain’ of the automatic transmission, directing fluid flow.
- Filters and Fluids: Absolutely vital for keeping the transmission clean and cool.
- Electronic Components: Sensors, solenoids, and control modules for modern transmissions.
Some suppliers even offer custom-built torque converters or heavy-duty valve bodies designed for towing or high-performance applications. It’s worth checking out specialists who can advise on the best parts for your specific vehicle and how you use it. They often have a good knowledge of what works and what doesn’t, saving you time and headaches down the track.
8. Heavy Duty Transmissions
When you’re dealing with serious work, like hauling massive loads or tackling tough terrain, you need a gearbox that can keep up. That’s where heavy-duty transmissions come in. These aren’t your average car transmissions; they’re built tough for demanding jobs.
These transmissions are engineered to handle extreme power and torque, making them ideal for commercial trucks, buses, agricultural machinery, and even specialized off-road vehicles. They often feature more robust internal components, advanced cooling systems, and specialized gear ratios to optimize performance for specific heavy-duty applications. Choosing the right heavy-duty transmission often comes down to matching its capacity and features to the specific demands of your vehicle or equipment. It’s not just about horsepower; it’s about sustained torque, operational environment, and the type of work being done.
Here’s a look at some common types and what makes them stand out:
- Commercial Truck Transmissions: Designed for long-haul trucking, these focus on fuel efficiency and durability over vast distances. They often have many gears to keep the engine in its sweet spot.
- Off-Highway Transmissions: Built for the roughest conditions, think construction sites or mining operations. These need to be incredibly strong and often have features like torque converters for smooth power delivery.
- Industrial Transmissions: Used in everything from heavy machinery on a factory floor to specialized equipment like cranes. Reliability is key here, as downtime can be incredibly costly.
The complexity of heavy-duty transmissions means that maintenance and repair should always be handled by professionals. Incorrect adjustments or parts can lead to significant damage and costly downtime, impacting your operations. For on-location repairs, consider services like Rolon Mobile Truck Repair.
The complexity of heavy-duty transmissions means that maintenance and repair should always be handled by professionals. Incorrect adjustments or parts can lead to significant damage and costly downtime, impacting your operations.
9. Nissan Engine and Gearbox Suppliers
Finding the right place for Nissan engines and gearboxes can be a bit of a hunt. You want parts that are good quality and won’t give you grief down the road. It’s not just about grabbing the cheapest thing you see; it’s about getting something reliable without a ton of hassle.
When you’re shopping around, think about the size of the supplier’s operation and where they’re located. A place with a big warehouse, maybe thousands of square meters, likely has more parts ready to go. This often means they can handle bigger orders and have a wider selection. Location matters too, especially if you’re importing. Being near major shipping ports, like many places in China’s Guangdong Province, can make getting parts to you faster and cheaper.
It’s also smart to see if a supplier really knows their stuff when it comes to Nissan. Some places focus just on rebuilding engines or testing gearboxes. That specialization can be a good sign they’re experts. You’ll want to ask about their quality checks. Do they have certifications like ISO? What kind of tests do they run on the engines and gearboxes before they sell them? Asking for test reports or details on their quality control process is a good idea.
Don’t just go for the lowest price. Look at the whole picture: the supplier’s experience, their quality control, and how they handle shipping. A slightly higher price for a part from a trusted supplier is usually worth it in the long run.
Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Check their certifications: Look for ISO or other industry standards.
- Ask about quality testing: What procedures do they follow?
- Consider their shipping: How do they package and transport heavy parts?
- Look at warranties: What kind of coverage do they offer?
Some suppliers might have a really deep stock of different Nissan models, including older or harder-to-find ones. Others might stick to the most common parts. It’s worth checking if they have what you need or if they can get it for you reliably. Also, pay attention to their Minimum Order Quantity (MOQ). Some places require you to buy a lot at once, which might not work if you only need a few items.
10. Guangdong Province
When you’re looking for automatic transmission parts, especially for things like Nissan engines and gearboxes, you’ll find that a lot of the action happens in China, and Guangdong Province is a major hub for this. It’s like the central workshop for car parts, with tons of suppliers all gathered in one place. Cities like Guangzhou and Foshan are packed with companies, from huge operations to smaller workshops, all busy making and shipping components worldwide.
The sheer concentration of manufacturers in Guangdong is a big deal. It means there’s a lot of competition, which can be good for prices and quality. Plus, being close to major shipping ports like Shenzhen makes getting parts out pretty fast. This setup is great for businesses that need parts quickly and reliably. You can often find a wide selection of parts here, and many suppliers have a lot of experience with international shipping, so they know how to handle the logistics.
Here’s a quick look at what makes Guangdong a go-to spot:
- Industrial Clusters: Lots of suppliers in one area create an efficient environment. You can often find what you need faster.
- Export Experience: Many Guangdong suppliers are used to dealing with overseas customers and have streamlined export processes.
- Wide Selection: The high number of manufacturers means a broad range of parts are available, from complete gearboxes to smaller components like shift forks and valve bodies.
When you’re choosing a supplier from this region, it’s smart to check out their certifications, like ISO 9001, to make sure they’re serious about quality. Also, asking about their quality assurance processes and looking at their track record for on-time delivery can tell you a lot. Some suppliers, like Guangzhou Jiake Automatic Transmission Co., Ltd., specialize in a variety of automatic transmission parts and have a good understanding of the market.
It’s not just about finding the cheapest option. You need to look at how quickly they respond to questions, their delivery performance, and if they have a good reorder rate, which shows customer satisfaction. A supplier with a high reorder rate means other businesses trust them enough to buy again and again.
While Guangdong is a powerhouse, remember that other regions might have their own strengths, like lower costs or specialized production. But for a combination of selection, speed, and export know-how, Guangdong is definitely a place to consider for your transmission needs.
Wrapping Up Your Gearbox Search
So, finding the right gearbox or transmission specialist in Melbourne doesn’t have to be a headache. We’ve looked at some top places that really know their stuff, whether you need a whole new unit, a tricky repair, or just some specific parts. Companies like Wholesale Automatic Transmissions, Heavy Automatics, and Mal Wood Automotive are solid choices, each with their own strengths. Remember, your vehicle’s transmission is super important for how it runs and how long it lasts. Taking a little extra time to pick a good supplier means you’ll likely save yourself trouble down the road. Happy driving!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of parts does Wholesale Automatic Transmissions offer?
Wholesale Automatic Transmissions has a huge selection of parts for automatic gearboxes. They have stuff for many different cars, including 4WDs and SUVs. They even make some parts in Australia, like tough oil coolers and kits for torque converters.
How much experience does Heavy Automatics have with Allison Transmissions?
Heavy Automatics is a top dealer for Allison Transmissions in Australia. They’ve been working with these tough gearboxes for trucks, buses, and farm machines for many years and have a massive amount of parts ready to go.
Why choose Mal Wood Automotive for TREMEC gearboxes?
Mal Wood Automotive has been in the business for over 40 years and is an official TREMEC dealer. They know TREMEC gearboxes inside and out and offer a wide variety of parts and upgrades for performance cars.
What’s special about Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG) for Subarus?
PPG makes super strong gearboxes specifically for racing Subarus like WRXs and STIs. Their gearboxes are built to handle the extreme power and stress of competition driving, making them ideal for motorsport.
What are TREMEC Transmissions known for?
TREMEC is famous for making really tough manual gearboxes, especially for muscle cars and high-performance vehicles. Their TKO and T56 models are popular for upgrades and custom builds because they can handle a lot of power.
Where can I find common parts for automatic transmission repairs?
You can find many essential parts like seals, gaskets, clutches, filters, and fluids at specialized suppliers. Many Australian companies offer both regular and heavy-duty options for various car brands, helping you keep your automatic gearbox in good shape.