Gearbox

The gearbox is the link between engine power and driver — and largely determines the driving experience of your classic. As a gearbox rebuild specialist, I work both for private restorers and for workshops and dealers who prefer to leave this component to an expert.
Every gearbox is bespoke: only during the rebuild does it become clear what is really needed. That is why every project starts with a thorough diagnosis, preferably on the road or otherwise through an intake consultation.

How do you recognise the need for a gearbox rebuild?

The gearbox of a classic car requires specific attention. Wear often develops gradually and is therefore not always noticed in time. Below you will find the most common signs that your gearbox is due for a rebuild.

Rough or difficult gear changes

Do you have difficulty engaging a gear, or does shifting feel jerky or stiff? This often indicates wear on the synchromesh rings or a shortage of (or old) gearbox oil.

Unexpectedly jumping out of gear or refusing a gear

Does the gearbox change down by itself, or does a gear suddenly drop out while driving? This is a clear sign that internal components, such as doglegs or synchromesh rings, are worn and need attention.

Vibration or jolts while driving

Do you feel unusual vibration or jerks when pulling away or while driving? A damaged gear set or worn bearings in the gearbox may be the cause.

Burning smell or overheating

Do you notice a burning or acrid smell from the drivetrain? Overheating due to too little or old gearbox oil quickly damages the internal components.

Visible fluid leaks

Do you see fluid stains under your vehicle, in the area of the gearbox? Leaking gaskets or oil seals must be dealt with as soon as possible to prevent further damage.

Unusual noises in a specific gear

Do you hear a humming, grinding or clicking noise that only occurs in a particular gear? This often indicates wear on a specific gear wheel or bearing within that gear.

Droning or whining noise that rises with engine speed

Do you hear a noise that increases or decreases with engine speed, regardless of which gear you are in? This often indicates worn main bearings in the gearbox.

Difficulty finding neutral or unexpected noise in neutral

Is it difficult to get the gearbox into neutral, or do you hear a ticking or rattling noise when in neutral? This may indicate wear on the input shaft bearing or the mainshaft.

How I Work

Once your gearbox arrives with me, the rebuild process starts as soon as possible.

Diagnosis — Assessed on the road wherever possible, or otherwise through an extensive intake consultation. This allows me to map out the complaints and the expected work as accurately as possible.

Dismantling — The gearbox is completely dismantled. Only at this point does the true condition of the internal components become visible.

Cleaning and inspection — All parts are cleaned and checked against factory specifications and for excessive wear.

Assessment and advice — Based on the inspection, I determine what is needed and advise you accordingly, including any opportunities for improvement such as a J-type overdrive. You remain in control; my work only starts with your express approval.

Assembly — The gearbox is carefully rebuilt with the replacement parts, new gaskets, seals and bearings. I also supply the correct gearbox oil for your specific gearbox.

Final inspection — Before delivery, operation is checked so that the gear change once again matches the factory specifications.

A careful running-in period is essential for the lifespan of your rebuild: new parts, such as bearings and synchromesh rings, need to bed in gradually under load before they function optimally. You will receive clear instructions from me for the initial period, including how to handle load and engine speed, so that you can rely on it with complete peace of mind

Options

To safeguard the reliability of your gearbox, with every rebuild I replace as standard the parts most subject to wear and ageing, regardless of the specific complaints:

  • Replacement of O-rings and gaskets
  • Replacement of bearings
  • Fresh gearbox oil
  • Complete cleaning and inspection to factory specifications

In addition to the standard replacements, the inspection also reveals parts whose wear varies greatly from gearbox to gearbox and can only be determined with certainty after dismantling:

  • Replacement of synchromesh rings
  • Replacement of gears
  • Other internal components, based on the wear found

Cosmetic refurbishment:

    Step 1: Blasting

    I blast the gearbox casing with fine media; this process removes old paint, corrosion and oxidation right down to the bare aluminium or cast iron. In addition, any defects, such as porosity, cracks or damage, come to light immediately during this process, before the mechanical rebuild is completed.

    Step 2: Painting

    On request, I paint the gearbox casing in the colour of your choice. The coating is custom-made and therefore available in almost any colour. This coating is fully resistant to oil and heat — suitable for real use, not just for the display cabinet.

    Specialism

    Fitting J-type overdrives requires specialist, bespoke work. As this complex component falls outside the standard maintenance work of most garages, I am happy to take this job off your hands. I help both private enthusiasts and fellow motor businesses with expert fitting and a perfectly adjusted end result.

    Just as important to me is thinking along with you as a client. During the rebuild I look beyond simply restoring the original condition: where are the opportunities to improve your gearbox or adapt it to your wishes? Whether it is greater driving comfort through an overdrive or another form of bespoke work that suits your classic and your driving style. This way your gearbox is not only rebuilt, but also optimised for your specific situation.

    Not sure whether your gearbox is due for a rebuild, or would you like to discuss the options for a J-type overdrive or a cosmetic finish? Please feel free to contact me using the form below. Also take a look at my portfolio for examples of previous work. I am happy to advise you, whether it concerns a one-off rebuild or an ongoing collaboration.

    Get in touch

    Opening hours

    I work by appointment only. Please feel free to get in touch to arrange a time.

    Postal address

    Kemphaan 33

    8532 AS Lemmer, Friesland, the Netherlands

    Contact details

    contact@vanvliet-klassiekers.nl

    +31 6 81 72 31 78