Finding the right gearbox and transmission suppliers Australia wide can feel like a puzzle. Whether you’re looking for a brand new unit, a specialist repair, or just some hard-to-find parts, the options can seem endless. This guide aims to cut through the noise and point you towards some of the top names in the business. We’ve gathered information on companies known for their quality work, extensive product ranges, and solid reputations across the country. So, if you’re dealing with a tricky transmission issue or planning an upgrade, check out these places.
Key Takeaways
- Wholesale Automatic Transmissions offers a massive selection of automatic transmission parts, including Australian-made heavy-duty coolers and torque converter lock-up kits, catering to many vehicle makes.
- Heavy Automatics is a major Allison Transmission distributor in Australia, providing support and parts for heavy machinery like trucks and buses, with extensive inventory and multiple facilities.
- Mal Wood Automotive is an official Elite TREMEC Distributor with over 40 years of experience, supplying TREMEC transmissions and a wide range of driveline parts for various car models.
- All Drive Subaroo partners with Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG) to offer strong, reliable motorsport billet gearboxes for Subaru vehicles, including custom builds.
- Many suppliers provide specialized services like diagnostics, repairs, rebuilds, and upgrades, alongside parts, to keep your vehicle running smoothly.
1. Wholesale Automatic Transmissions
When you’re looking for parts for your automatic transmission, especially if you’ve got a 4WD or SUV, Wholesale Automatic Transmissions is a name that comes up a lot. They’ve been around for over 30 years, so they’ve seen pretty much everything when it comes to keeping these complex bits of machinery running smoothly. They’re known for having a massive stock of parts, and a good chunk of it is actually designed and made right here in Australia. That’s pretty cool, especially for things like heavy-duty oil coolers and torque converter lock-up kits.
They don’t just stick to one brand either. Whether you’ve got a Toyota LandCruiser, a Nissan Patrol (they’re apparently one of the biggest retailers for these two globally), or even a Ford, Holden, or Mazda, they likely have something for you. They also carry some US-designed parts, like TransGo kits and PML transmission pans, which is handy if you’re after something specific.
Here’s a quick look at some of the stuff they offer:
- Australian-designed and made heavy-duty transmission oil coolers
- Torque converter lock-up kits
- Transmission temperature gauges
- Heavy-duty valve bodies (Nomad, Extreme, and Full Manual)
- Custom-built torque converters
- Manual to automatic conversion kits
- Standalone transmission control systems from HGM COMPUSHIFT
If you’re thinking about a transmission rebuild or even a manual to auto conversion, these guys are worth a look. They also handle servicing and repairs at their Melbourne workshop. Just a heads-up, if you’re buying a valve body, there’s a deposit involved, and you can get a refund if you return the old one within a certain timeframe. It’s $650 for local customers and $850 for international ones, with refunds available up to 120 days. They really seem to cover all the bases for automatic transmission needs, whether you’re a DIY mechanic or need a full service. You can check out their range of automatic transmission parts online.
2. Heavy Automatics
When you’re dealing with serious machinery, the kind that hauls, digs, or transports heavy loads, you need a transmission that can keep up. That’s where Heavy Automatics comes in. They’re pretty much the go-to folks in Australia for Allison Transmissions, which are known for being tough and reliable in all sorts of demanding situations.
Heavy Automatics is the authorised distributor for Allison Transmissions across Australia, bringing decades of experience to the table. They handle everything from trucks and buses to agricultural equipment, basically anything that needs a serious automatic gearbox. They’ve got five big facilities spread out, which is handy because they can help out teams no matter where they are. Plus, they stock a massive amount of parts – we’re talking over $10 million worth – so getting what you need shouldn’t be a problem.
They’ve got a huge range of Allison Transmissions, covering 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 the bill. They also supply remanufactured units, which can be a smart way to go if you’re looking to save a bit of cash without sacrificing quality. And don’t worry about finding the right bits; they stock genuine Allison parts, so you know you’re getting the real deal.
Here’s a quick look at what they offer:
- Allison Transmission Sales: New, remanufactured, and exchange units.
- Parts Supply: Genuine Allison parts and related components.
- Service & Repair: Diagnostics, maintenance, and full rebuilds by factory-trained technicians.
- Application Engineering: Help figuring out the best transmission for your specific needs.
They’re not just about selling you a box, either. They provide support, advice, and repairs. Their team has a ton of combined experience – over 500 years, apparently – which means they’ve probably seen and fixed just about every transmission issue you can imagine. They’re all about making sure your equipment keeps running smoothly.
Allison Transmissions are designed to make driving easier and more productive. They use advanced electronic and hydraulic systems to manage gear changes automatically, meaning no clutch pedal or manual shifting to worry about. This not only simplifies operation but also helps reduce driver fatigue and boost efficiency. The adaptive shift technology is pretty neat too; it adjusts gear selection based on speed, load, and how you’re driving, aiming for peak performance and fuel economy.
If you’ve got a heavy-duty vehicle or piece of equipment that relies on an automatic transmission, especially an Allison, Heavy Automatics is definitely a company worth checking out. You can reach them by phone or through their website’s inquiry form.
3. Mal Wood Automotive
Mal Wood Automotive (MWA) has been a big name in the Australian driveline and transmission scene for over 40 years. They really know their stuff when it comes to upgrading and fixing transmissions, especially if you’re looking for TREMEC gearboxes. They’re actually an official authorised Elite TREMEC Distributor, which means they’ve got the inside track on all things TREMEC.
What’s cool about MWA is that they don’t just sell parts; they design and build their own products too. You can find everything from gearsticks to clutch master cylinder kits, all aimed at making your car perform better. They’ve got a massive range of genuine TREMEC components, but they also stock parts for 4WDs, Supras, and older 4-speed transmissions. Plus, they’ve got a whole section for driveline parts like clutch kits, hydraulics, driveshafts, and flywheels that fit a bunch of different car models.
They pride themselves 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 Transmissions: They are specialists and an Elite Distributor.
- Driveline Components: A wide selection for various makes and models.
- In-House Designed Products: Custom parts to improve vehicle efficiency.
- Clearance Items: Opportunities to grab quality parts at a reduced price.
- After-Sales Service: They’ve been known to help customers even years after a purchase.
4. All Drive Subaroo
When it comes to Subaru gearboxes, All Drive Subaroo (ADS) is a name that pops up a lot. They really focus on Subaru vehicles, which means they’ve got a pretty good handle on what makes those particular transmissions tick. They offer a few different levels of service, from basic rebuilt gearboxes to more heavy-duty remanufactured units.
Their Level 3 remanufactured gearboxes are built to be stronger than the original factory parts. This is a big deal if you’re pushing your Subaru a bit harder, maybe with some off-roading or just general spirited driving. They claim to have one of the lowest failure rates in the industry, which is always a good sign when you’re looking at transmission work.
Here’s a quick look at what they offer:
- 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 assembled 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.
One thing ADS really stresses is the importance of getting the right gearbox for your specific Subaru model. They point out that many Subaru gearboxes look similar but have small variations that can cause big problems if they’re not matched correctly. Using the wrong ratios, for instance, can end up damaging your differentials, and that’s a repair bill nobody wants.
It’s easy to think all gearboxes are the same, especially when they look alike. But with Subarus, those small differences matter a lot. Getting it wrong can lead to more than just poor performance; it can cause serious damage to other parts of your drivetrain, costing you a lot more in the long run.
They usually keep a good stock of common gearboxes, so you might not have to wait too long. If you’re dealing with transmission issues, it’s worth checking out All Drive Subaroo to see if they have a solution for your Subaru.
5. Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG)
When Subaru started rolling out those WRX and STI models, people immediately saw the potential for racing. With their all-wheel drive and balanced weight, they were already pretty quick off the lot. 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 deal 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:
- Billet helical or straight-cut gears (1st to 5th) with updated tooth profiles.
- All gears are shot-peened for extra strength and to get rid of any flaws.
- New billet hubs and 6-tooth sliders.
- Lightweight billet shifter forks.
- Brand new Subaru OEM bearings throughout.
- New OEM Subaru synchros.
- A lever-action hub and slider for fifth gear, designed for high load shifting.
- The gearbox casing is bead blasted to look like new.
- Choice of center diff or viscous coupling (optional, can be new).
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 looking for serious performance and reliability in a manual gearbox, TREMEC is a name that comes up a lot. They’re known for building some pretty tough transmissions, especially for muscle cars and high-performance applications. Think of that satisfying clunk when you shift gears in a classic Mustang or a modern sports car – there’s a good chance a TREMEC is doing the work.
TREMEC makes a range of transmissions, but they’re particularly famous for their TKO and T56 models. The TKO series, like the TKO 500 and TKO 600, are popular upgrades for older vehicles that originally came with less capable transmissions. They offer better gear ratios and the durability needed for more powerful engines. The T56, and its more advanced Magnum version, is a six-speed powerhouse often found in high-performance factory vehicles and a go-to for serious custom builds. These are built to handle a lot of torque and abuse.
Here’s a quick look at what makes TREMEC stand out:
- Robust Construction: TREMEC transmissions are engineered with strength in mind, using quality materials to withstand high horsepower and torque.
- Performance Gearing: They offer well-thought-out gear ratios that can improve acceleration and cruising comfort, depending on the specific model.
- Proven Reliability: With decades of experience, TREMEC has a solid reputation for building transmissions that last, even under demanding conditions.
- Wide Application: While famous for performance cars, TREMEC gearboxes are also used in various other applications, showing their versatility.
If you’re upgrading an older vehicle or building a high-performance machine, a TREMEC transmission is definitely worth considering. They’re a solid choice for anyone who values a good manual gearbox. You can find a variety of TREMEC parts and related components, like the Motive Speedometer Gear (MOT-T18-169), which fits many of their popular models for specific applications.
TREMEC transmissions are often the heart of a high-performance vehicle’s drivetrain, providing the connection between the engine’s power and the wheels. Their engineering focuses on durability and driver engagement, making them a preferred choice for enthusiasts and manufacturers alike.
7. Allison Transmission
When you’re talking about automatic transmissions, especially for heavy-duty work, Allison is a name that comes up a lot. They’ve been around for ages, building a reputation for making transmissions that just keep going, no matter what you throw at them. Think construction sites, long-haul trucking, or even emergency vehicles – Allison transmissions are often the backbone.
What makes them stand out? Well, for starters, their design is pretty robust. They use good materials and put them together carefully, so these units can handle some serious stress. Plus, they’ve got smart tech built-in. This means the transmission can monitor itself, letting you know if something’s up before it becomes a big problem. This kind of diagnostic stuff is a lifesaver for keeping vehicles on the road and out of the shop.
Allison offers a bunch of different series, each suited for specific jobs:
- 1000/2000 Series: Great for light commercial vehicles, offering up to 6 speeds and advanced electronic controls.
- 3000 Series: Designed for medium-duty trucks, focusing on fuel efficiency and adaptability, with options like an integral output retarder.
- 4000 Series: Built for high performance in demanding applications, featuring up to 7 speeds and robust electronic controls.
- 9000 Series: This is the big gun, for really heavy-duty stuff like mining and energy sectors, handling massive power.
The real beauty of an Allison transmission is its fully automatic operation. You don’t have to worry about a clutch pedal or manually shifting gears. Everything is handled by smart electronic and hydraulic systems, making driving simpler and reducing driver fatigue. This also means smoother gear changes and better overall vehicle performance.
They also have this neat adaptive shift technology. It basically watches how the vehicle is being used – the speed, the load, even how you’re driving – and adjusts the gear shifts on the fly. This helps keep the engine running efficiently, saving fuel and making the transmission last longer. If you’re looking for reliable power transfer, especially in demanding Australian conditions, Allison is definitely a brand worth considering. For more details on their range, you might want to check out Heavy Automatics as they are a major distributor.
8. 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.
Here’s a quick look at what you might be searching for:
- Seals and Gaskets: The bread and butter of any transmission repair. 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 deep knowledge of what works and what doesn’t, saving you time and headaches down the track.
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.
9. 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.
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.
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.
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.
10. Transmission Service and Repairs
When your vehicle’s gearbox starts acting up, it’s not just an inconvenience; it can quickly turn into a major headache. Getting professional service and repairs is key to keeping your car running smoothly and avoiding bigger problems down the road.
Think about it: transmissions are complex pieces of machinery. They have a lot of moving parts, and when something goes wrong, it usually requires a trained eye and the right tools to fix it properly. Trying to DIY a transmission repair without the proper knowledge can often make the issue worse, leading to more expensive fixes later on.
Here’s what you can expect when you take your vehicle to a specialist for transmission service and repairs:
- Accurate Diagnosis: Professionals use specialized equipment to pinpoint the exact problem. This means they can tell you what’s wrong, why it happened, and what needs to be done to fix it.
- Quality Repairs: Whether it’s a minor adjustment or a complete overhaul, experienced technicians will use the right parts and techniques to get your transmission back in top shape.
- Preventative Maintenance: Regular check-ups and fluid changes can catch small issues before they become big ones, saving you time and money in the long run.
It’s easy to forget about your transmission until it starts making strange noises or shifting poorly. But just like any other major component in your car, it needs attention. Regular maintenance, like checking and changing the transmission fluid, is super important. This fluid keeps everything lubricated and cool, and if it gets old or dirty, it can cause serious damage.
Some common signs that your transmission might need attention include:
- Slipping gears (the engine revs up, but the car doesn’t speed up)
- Strange noises, like grinding or clunking, especially when shifting
- Leaking transmission fluid (often red or brown and smells burnt)
- Difficulty shifting into gear
- A burning smell coming from the transmission area
Don’t wait until your transmission completely fails. Taking care of it early can make a big difference in the life of your vehicle.
Wrapping It Up
So, there you have it. Finding the right gearbox or transmission supplier across Australia can feel like a big job, but hopefully, this guide has made it a bit easier. Whether you’re after heavy-duty parts for your 4×4, specific components for a classic car, or just need a reliable service, there are plenty of great businesses out there ready to help. Don’t forget to check out specialists like Wholesale Automatics for a massive range of parts, Heavy Automatics for Allison experts, and Mal Wood Automotive for TREMEC and driveline gear. Remember, a good transmission is key to your vehicle’s performance and longevity, so taking the time to find the right supplier is definitely worth it. Happy motoring!
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of transmissions does Wholesale Automatic Transmissions offer?
Wholesale Automatic Transmissions has a massive selection of automatic transmission parts and upgrades. They cater to many car types, including those used for towing, off-roading, or custom builds. They have parts for popular brands like Toyota, Holden, Ford, Mazda, Isuzu, and Nissan, and even offer Australian-made heavy-duty coolers and torque converters.
How much experience does Heavy Automatics have with Allison Transmissions?
Heavy Automatics is an authorized distributor for Allison Transmissions and has decades of experience. They are Australia’s largest distributor and have over 100 employees with a combined 500 years of experience in designing and fixing these heavy-duty systems for trucks, buses, and farm equipment.
What makes Mal Wood Automotive a good choice for TREMEC transmissions?
Mal Wood Automotive has over 40 years of experience with transmission and driveline upgrades. They are an official Elite TREMEC Distributor and offer a huge range of TREMEC parts and components. They also provide a 100% quality guarantee on their work and parts, giving you peace of mind.
What’s special about All Drive Subaroo’s transmissions for Subarus?
All Drive Subaroo (ADS) specializes in Subaru gearboxes and offers both standard and upgraded options. They work with Pfitzner Performance Gearboxes (PPG) to create strong, reliable billet gearboxes for racing and off-roading. They also have expertise in dual-range gearboxes and conversion kits for both turbo and non-turbo models.
Can I get my transmission repaired or rebuilt by these suppliers?
Yes, many of these suppliers offer repair and rebuilding services. For example, Wholesale Automatic Transmissions provides auto transmission servicing, diagnosis, repairs, and rebuilds. Heavy Automatics also offers comprehensive repair services for Allison transmissions, including fault diagnosis and on-site assistance.
What should I consider when choosing a transmission upgrade?
When upgrading, think about how you use your vehicle. If you tow or go off-road, a heavy-duty cooler or a stronger torque converter might be beneficial. For performance vehicles, consider stronger gearsets or specialized racing transmissions. It’s always best to consult with the experts at these companies to find the right upgrade for your specific needs and vehicle.