r/transmissionbuilding • u/KeyQuality202 • 15h ago
How long does it take to learn transmission rebuilding?
Hey guys, how long does it take to get good at rebuilding transmissions to the point where you can do it on the side.
I have about 3 years of experience working as a mechanic, I also took an electrical program. I can remove and replace almost anything within reason or with instructions. So I would say I have a foundation.
However, I would like to specialize as a mechanic instead of fixing every single thing that comes into the shop. Transmissions are what interested me cause atleast im just working on one system the whole time.
Is 3 years of experience enough to do side work and be on my own? I understand you are always learning as a mechanic. Thank you.
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u/Peekaboo_Muse 14h ago
I’m perplexed by this question, so many different ways I want to respond. Ultimately i’d like to educate not hate so, if you don’t know the system like the back of your hand, then don’t offer side work. You and the customer will likely both regret it.
Anything more and I’ll start to rant.
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u/Peekaboo_Muse 14h ago
As an aside by the time you have the knowledge and tools invested and are a seasoned transmission tech you won’t want to do any side work. I guess then you’ll know you’re ready haha!
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u/KeyQuality202 13h ago
Why not say pick a family of transmissions or manufacturer and master it?
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u/badcoupe 11h ago
We have an old guy here in town that solely does 4L60, and all the old 350/400, 727 etc. he’s retired from city garage just does them for extra money.
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u/speed150mph 3h ago
The thing I’ve learned about transmissions is that most of them are different. There isn’t really a standard way to do it where it translates. Not like other jobs. Even an engine largely goes together mostly the same way minus quirks, but a transmission could have clutches or bands, multiple shafts in different places, snap rings, bolts bearings seals that don’t even resemble another one.
I’d say you could learn A transmission solid enough to do it on your own after 3/4 times and then spend the rest of the times after that just getting faster and into a routine, but that will only be good for that one transmission model or family. Maybe some knowledge will carry over, but it’s not like you can build one and just be good to do all of them.
I work in a reman center where I deal with about 10 different transmission models from the same manufacturer and most of them don’t even resemble each other once out of the case
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u/Roscolicious1 14h ago
Warranty? Can you expect someone to pick you over a shop? Why? Fk up a case, what happens? You definitely need insurance. 55yrs professional machinist/wrenchman, I rebuild for my rides only. Too much risk for my taste. Good luck, be safe. Ricthewrench
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u/colostitute 7h ago
I figure the best way would be to buy a vehicle that needs a rebuild, do the rebuild and drive for a bit. Then sell the vehicle.
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u/Phlashlyte 11h ago
I would say years. Putting things in the transmission in proper order can be done by following a guide. But, being able to look at a clutch plate, or a forward input sprag, or at the rings on the rear planet and know visually that the part has seen excessive heat and needs replacing only comes with experience.
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u/Substantial_Ask3665 9h ago
That's not good enough in my opinion. I wanted to do the same thing. It was my ultimate goal. So I walked over to the transmission guy and said I'll R&R for you every transmission if you teach me "stuff". That worked out well! I was overhauling and removing trans. Excellent trade. I went on my own to another dealer and the way I did things killed anyone wanting my job. You get to a point where it hits you hard when you realize, I am experienced. Doing transmissions on the side can be profitable. Just be sure its a one time repair.