Automatic Transmission Design Vehicle Service & Repair Center

ATD's Germantown location offers complete vehicle service and repair for all makes and models, specializing in transmission and drivetrain repair.

Serving All of Southeastern Wisconsin & The Greater Milwaukee Region
Your vehicle is important to you. When you need your transmission serviced, take it to the BEST - to people who understand how important it is to you and know the importance of fixing your vehicle right - the first time.
We do not believe in treating you or your vehicle like a number. When you take your car to Automatic Transmission Design, our highly trained technicians will run diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact problem, advise you of estimated costs, and answer any questions you may have before repairs are performed.

Automatic Transmission Design has been providing high quality, honest repairs to customers for over 20 years. Our highly trained technicians have the knowledge and expertise to help get you back on the road again. Our technicians are ASE certified and undergo continual training to stay on the cutting edge of automotive innovations. We service all makes and models using the best parts and state of the art equipment. Our friendly staff is available from 8:00am to 6:00pm CST to answer any questions you may have. Don't wait another day. Get your vehicle fixed by the best in the business today!

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ATD Vehicle Service Menu:


Automatic Transmission Rebuilding
Automatic transmission rebuilding includes complete disassembly, cleaning, and inspection. Broken and worn out parts are replaced with parts designed to meet or exceed OEM standards and specifications. Every unit is dyno tested before installation in the vehicle.

Every transmission rebuilt by ATD receives the same treatment. The disassembly process is complete and thorough. This allows us to examine all areas of the transmission including the clutch packs (frictions and steels), bands, bushings, bearings, planetary gears, valvebody, and case. Every part of the transmission is completely cleaned and degreased. The case and all external components receive fresh paint after washing. Paint helps to seal the transmission case, preventing oxidization, and provides a fresh, clean package. The assembly process starts with replacement of all soft parts (rubber seals, gaskets, o-rings, sealing rings, etc.), new friction materials (clutches and bands), and new bushings. Worn or damaged hard part components are replaced (pumps, planetaries, shafts, etc.). Also, any component upgrades are installed. Valvebody and pump renewal restores the correct hydraulic operation and assures long life of the rebuilt transmission.

Automatic Transmission Maintenance Service
Automatic transmission fluid exchange and filter replacement. Transmission pan and filter removal is our preferred method of performing transmission maintenance. We do not subscribe to “flushing” the transmission, as this operation disturbs a great deal of the internal workings of the transmission. Additionally, flushing a well worn or used transmission will certainly accelerate its failure. We recommend transmission service once a year or every 20,000 miles. We usually do not recommend service be performed on high mileage transmissions that have had little or no regular services. Fluid and filter change will not restore a worn transmission or one that is operating poorly. Remember, it is a preventative maintenance service - not a restorative repair.

Transfer Case / 4 Wheel Drive (4WD/4X4) / All Wheel Drive (AWD) Maintenance Service
Transfer case fluid exchange. This preventative maintenance should be performed every 20,000 to 40,000 miles. Transfer cases that appear moist, wet, or leaking will require attention. Sometimes the leak will be small enough that there will not be noticeable puddles. Transfer cases hold very small quantities of fluid (about 3 quarts) and any leaks will cause premature failure. We are always willing to perform inspections to verify any type of four wheel drive concerns. Tire size, condition, and appropriate inflation are critical to proper operation of 4WD/AWD vehicles.

Heavy Duty Towing Packages for Gas or Diesel Trucks
We specialize in heavy duty transmission and converter packages that live up to the grueling punishment of today's trucks. Whether you're pulling a 16' tag trailer, 5th wheel camper, or 40' car hauler, ATD has proven transmission & torque converter technology that won't leave you on the side of the highway. Click Here to Learn More About Our Diesel Packages!

Problem Analysis
The technicians at Automatic Transmission Design will analyze your vehicle's situation by performing computerized diagnostic scans, test drives to verify your complaint, and providing written estimates that pinpoint the problem with the vehicle and how our technicians will correct it.

Every vehicle-related concern must begin with a complete diagnostic scan. We happily provide this service to all customers free of charge. If your “Check Engine/Service Engine Soon” light is on, come see us - no appointment necessary.

Manual Transmission Rebuilding
Manual transmission rebuilding includes complete disassembly, cleaning, and inspection. Broken and worn out parts are replaced with parts designed to meet or exceed OEM standards and specifications.

All manual transmission repairs require disassembly to accurately evaluate the concern and provide an accurate estimate of repair. Because the internal parts of a manual transmission are designed to provide very long life, only worn or damaged parts are replaced. Not all of the internal parts of a manual transmission require replacement during a rebuild process.

Manual Transmission Maintenance Service
Manual transmission fluid exchange should be performed every 20,000 to 40,000 miles.

Clutch Service & Replacement
Are you experiencing an issue with your manual transmission clutch or throwout bearing? Automatic Transmission Design can diagnose, service, and replace your clutch & related components, allowing your manual transmission to operate properly once again.

Differential / Rear End Repair & Overhaul
We also specialize in differential work. The old fluid is drained, the housing is thoroughly cleaned, damaged and worn parts are replaced with OE equivalent or better quality parts, all bearings and seals are replaced, and the new gear pattern is checked upon installation.

Differential gear ratio changes, limited-slip / positraction components, and axle shaft replacement services are all also available at Automatic Transmission Design.

Differential / Rear End Service
At ATD, a differential service entails removing all of the old fluid, thorough inspection of all internal components of the differential, and refilling with new fluid.

Custom Maintenance Schedules for Commercial & Fleet Customers
Let us take the hassle out of your fleet management. We can plan the maintenance for your each vehicle in your fleet, including written preliminary estimates for service. Click Here to Learn More About Our Commercial / Fleet Services!

And More!
At Automatic Transmission Design the possibilities are endless! Our ASE & ATRA Certified technicians can perform extensive electronic diagnostic testing, clutch service & replacement, and torque converter remanufacturing. As a full-service automotive repair shop, we can handle any job or service you may need - from complex transmissions and electronics to simple maintenance procedures like oil changes and brake jobs, to custom fabrication and performance work, ATD can do it all.

ATD has the capability and knowledge to help with extended warranty coverage plans and all insurance coverage. Please call us with any questions regarding implementing your drivetrain warranty coverage!
How Can We Help You?

Money is not the goal - it is the result of fixing the problem and returning the car to you. That is the goal.

With that in mind we will give you:
  • Honest Assessment of Problem,
  • Experienced, ASE & ATRA Certified Technicians,
  • Expert Service,
  • Competitive Pricing,
  • Caring Staff,
  • Straightforward Explanations in Terms You Can Understand,
  • High Quality Parts,
  • 100% Guaranteed Work with Warranty.

Don't make a $2,000 mistake without an accurate diagnosis from ATD!

Contact Us Today for Your Free Diagnosis, Test Drive, and Estimate!
(262) 251-7777, Send Us an Email Here, or Stop By During Normal Business Hours - No Appointment Needed!


Performance Diesel Truck Specialties:


Automatic Transmission Design has the expertise you need to reliably unleash your diesel truck's power. Using our extensive knowledge and experience in building high performance racing transmissions and torque converters has yielded an affordable, practical solution for all types of diesel truck applications.

Whether your truck is stock, double chipped, or somewhere in between, ATD has a transmission and torque converter package for your Dodge, Ford, or Chevrolet/GMC. ATD's customer base includes drag race and tractor pulling applications for all makes.

Automatic Transmission Design's heavy duty product line includes: billet aftermarket shafting, billet triple lock torque converters, extra strong converter components, and a wide variety of transmission-specific modifications to meet each customer's unique needs.

If you have a turbo diesel truck, ATD has your transmission solution.

Ford / Powerstroke:

E4OD
The ATD E4OD transmission package includes a triple-lock, billet steel cover converter. ATD E4OD transmissions are rebuilt with new clutch packs, all new bushings, upgraded planetary components, brand new solenoids, significant pump and valvebody modifications to address lubrication and pressure control problems. Additionally, the valvebody modifications are tailored to each customer’s desires - shift firmness, intended use of the truck, power-adders, towing capacity or weight, gear ratio, and tire size all determine the correct modifications needed. Due to its inherent internal strength, most applications do not require aftermarket internal components, however, there are billet components available for the customer who has significant power and intends to use the truck in competitive events or abusive environments. Aftermarket billet 300M steel components include input shaft, output shaft, intermediate shaft, forward and direct drums. These components can be spec’d by us when discussing your particular needs.

4R100
The ATD 4R100 transmission package includes a triple-lock, billet steel cover converter. ATD 4R100 transmissions are rebuilt with new clutch packs, all new bushings, upgraded planetary components, brand new solenoids, pump and valvebody modifications to address lubrication and pressure control issues. Additionally, the valvebody modifications are tailored to each customer’s desires - shift firmness, intended use of the truck, power-adders, towing capacity or weight, gear ratio, and tire size all determine the correct modifications needed. Due to its inherent internal strength, most applications do not require aftermarket internal components, however, there are components available for the customer who has significant power and intends to use the truck in competitive events or abusive environments. Aftermarket billet 300M steel components include input shaft, output shaft, intermediate shaft, forward and direct drums. These components can be spec’d by us when discussing your particular needs.

5R110

Chevy / GMC / Duramax / Allison:

4L80E

Allison 1000 (5 & 6 Speed)

Allison 2000 (5 Speed)

Dodge / Cummins:

618 / 47RH

47RE

48RE

John Wiza's Cummins Burnout with ATD 48RE image

Classic & Custom Car Services:


Classic & Antique Restoration Quality Transmission Overhaul
ATD can overhaul your factory transmission to exact OEM specifications – just like the day it rolled off the factory floor. This process includes complete disassembly, the transmission case is media blasted and cleaned thoroughly, all original hardware is carefully cleaned to preserve its quality, all hard parts are carefully inspected and reused when possible, and new soft parts that exceed OEM life and performance are utilized. Any desired performance enhancements (“shift kit”) can be added at the time of rebuild (muscle cars, etc.). All of the restoration transmissions are specifically tailored to the end use environment – stock, mild performance, street/strip performance. Each restoration transmission is carefully assembled by ATD’s classic car specialist. Exterior coatings available are: bare metal (after media blast), “cast blast” paint, standard gloss paint, or matching OE coating (if known and specified).

Examples of Restoration Transmissions:
3 Band Automatic, Aluminum Powerglide, BorgWarner 8 & 12, C-4, C-6, Cast Iron Powerglide, Corvair Powerglide, DG150/200/250 (3 Band Automatic), Dual-Coupling Hydramatic (Jetaway), DualPath, Dynaflow, Flashaway (Jetaway), Flash-O-Matic, Flight-O-Matic, Flightpitch (Triple Turbine), Fordomatic (2 and 3 Speed), Hydramatic, Jetaway, Merc-O-Matic (2 or 3 Speed), Mile-O-Matic, Powerflite, RotoHydramatic (240) Model 05, RotoHydramatic (375) Model 10 (Slim-Jim), Strato-Flight (Jetaway), Super Turbine 300, Super Turbine 400, TempesTorque, Torqueflite 727 (TF8), Torqueflite 904 / 999 (TF6), Turbo Hydramatic 200, Turbo Hydramatic 200-4R, Turbo Hydramatic 350, Turbo Hydramatic 400, Turbo Hydramatic 700R4, TurboDrive, Turboglide, Twin Band Hydramatic, Ultramatic.

Transmission Retrofit/Upgrade to Overdrive
ATD can retrofit your current OE transmission to a more modern transmission - including options with overdrive, electronic controls, etc. - or add a GearVendors overdrive to your existing transmission.

Examples of Retrofits Include:
General Motors (Chevrolet / Buick / Pontiac / Oldsmobile / Cadillac / GMC) retrofits to Turbo 350, 400, 700R4, 2004R, 4L60E, 4L80E, etc.
Ford / Lincoln / Mercury retrofits to GM or Ford transmissions: C4 or C6 to AOD, E4OD, 4R70W, or GM options.
Chrysler /Dodge / Plymouth retrofits to 727, 904, 46RE, or GM options.

Examples of GearVendors Additions:
PG, Turbo 350, Turbo 400, C4, C6, 727, 904 with GearVendors OverDrive.

Differential / Rear End Service
We also specialize in differential service. All old fluid is removed, housing cleaned thoroughly, bearings and seals replaced, and new gear pattern checked on installation.

High Performance Street/Strip Packages
At Automatic Transmission Design our roots are in racing, so we understand your need for speed. If you want your classic muscle car or hot rod to be more than a "garage / trailer queen" and unleash that power while maintaining reliability, look no further. We can develop a custom high performance transmission and converter package that meets your expectations and exceeds your wildest dreams. Please note that ATD does not recommend use of a trans brake on a street driven vehicle. We can work with you to deliver the performance you desire without sacrificing safety.

And More!
At Automatic Transmission Design the possibilities are endless! As a full-service automotive repair shop, we can handle any job or service you may need - from complex transmission controllers and electronics, a simple oil change or brake job, an engine swap or installation, to custom fabrication and performance work, ATD can do it all.

1957 Chevy getting an ATD 4L80 swap and a motor swap image

Fleet & Municipal Maintenance Services:


Automatic Transmission Design offers our Commercial & Municipal Fleet customers a wide variety of services including:

Automatic Transmission Rebuilding
Automatic transmission rebuilding includes complete disassembly, cleaning, and inspection. Broken and worn-out parts are replaced with parts designed to meet or exceed OEM standards and specifications. Every unit is dyno tested before installation in the vehicle.

Automatic Transmission Maintenance Service
Automatic transmission fluid exchange and filter replacement.

Transfer Case / 4 Wheel Drive Maintenance Service
Transfer case fluid exchange and filter replacement (if applicable).

Problem Analysis
The technicians at Automatic Transmission Design will analyze your vehicle's situation by performing computerized diagnostic scans, test drives to verify your complaint, and providing written estimates that pinpoint the problem with the vehicle and how our technicians will correct it.

Manual Transmission Rebuilding
Manual transmission rebuilding includes complete disassembly, cleaning, and inspection. Broken and worn-out parts are replaced with parts designed to meet or exceed OEM standards and specifications.

Manual Transmission Maintenance Service
Manual transmission fluid exchange and filter replacement (if applicable).

Differential / Rear End Service
We also specialize in differential service. All old fluid is removed, housing cleaned thoroughly, bearings and seals replaced, and new gear pattern checked on installation.

Custom Maintenance Schedules
Let us take the hassle out of your fleet management. We can plan the maintenance for each vehicle in your fleet, including writing preliminary estimates for service.
And More!
As always, at Automatic Transmission Design the possibilities are endless! As a full-service automotive repair shop, we can handle any job, special request, or service you may need. ATD can take care of your fleet, whatever your needs may be.

Frequently Asked Questions:


Automatic Transmission Design is open Monday through Friday, 8AM - 6PM CST.
Contact information for Automatic Transmission Design including address, phone number, email, and directions with a map can be found on the Contact ATD & Map page or by clicking here.
Automatic Transmission Design features state-of-the-art electronics and service. ATD will start with an electronic diagnostic scan of your vehicle, test drive your vehicle to verify the problem & complaint, present you with the facts, & prepare you an estimate. ATD does all of this at absolutely no cost to you. Visit ATD today to receive your free diagnosis and estimate.
Your car may not shift correctly, either at the correct speed or with the wrong feel. If you notice your car seems to take longer to get to speed or if the engine is racing as you drive, you may need transmission repair. Also, any type of transmission fluid leak should prompt immediate attention.

An illuminated check engine or service engine soon light may cause erratic operation or a noticeable change in the operation of the transmission. Our certified diagnostic staff will scan your vehicle to allow us to accurately define the problem with your vehicle.
Mostly heat. Heat can be caused by many different sources. This is only one of the reasons that any transmission problems should be properly evaluated by a qualified repair shop before a transmission is labeled as "bad".

Modern vehicles produced since the mid-1990's are all computer controlled. Their operation is influenced by many other systems on the vehicle. Due to concerns by the vehicle manufacturers to provide a smooth, almost seemless transmission operation, the transmission is very busy in modern cars. Modern transmissions also play a role in the fuel efficiency of the vehicle. Manufactures are using smaller, lighter, and more complex parts inside the transmission. Both of these factors lead to an increased probability of transmission problems.
Depending on the quality of work by the shop that repairs it, rebuilt transmissions should last at least as long the brand-new factory unit that was originally equipped on the vehicle. Occassionally rebuilt transmissions fail earlier than they should; if this occurs the cause of the failure should be determined.

Most rebuilt transmissions have a 1 to 3 year warranty and corresponding mileage warranty. This limit is in place because all rebuilt transmissions have to re-use some of the mechanical components inside the transmission.
Modern vehicles only require regular fluid and filter changes. At that time, our technicians will inspect for leaks and other problems not evident through an underhood inspection.

Most vehicle maintenance should follow the schedule outlined by the manufacturer in your owner's manual. Transmission service & maintenance is not normally recommended as a quick fix for erratic operation. Additionally, any vehicle with 100,000 miles or more and no prior transmission service/maintenance should avoid a transmission service.
Heavy duty trucks, i.e. snowplowing or towing; any type of high performance vehicle and race cars. If your car or truck has overheated the cooling system, a transmission service should be performed. The high operating temperatures seen from an overheated cooling system will have adverse effects on the transmission fluid.
YES! Although some cars do require special fluid. Fluid type is indicated on the transmission fluid dipstick and in the vehicles owners manual. The correct fluid type and accurate fill level are critical for the transmission to operate properly.
You should check your transmission fluid at every oil change or if you notice any type of transmission fluid leakage.
You cannot tell easily just by looking. Average service intervals should be 12-15 months or as indicated in your owner's manual, unless you have a heavy duty application.
YES! Transmission fluid in modern vehicles is stressed greatly. Modern transmission fluid is used to apply clutches and bands (hydraulic force), lubricate, and cool all internal parts, all at the same time.

In addition, it is constantly being forced (pumped) through extremely small passages - some as small as the diameter of a human hair. Because of its varied use and application, transmission fluid dynamics are extreme.

Heat breaks down transmission fluid, causing it to lose its effectiveness.
At Automatic Transmission Design the customer always comes first. If you do not have the ability to bring the vehicle in for service or your vehicle cannot be driven, ATD will cover the towing bill on major repairs up to the first $50. At ATD relationships are important to us, and we have made great business relationships with local towing companies. We can arrange for your vehicle to be towed so you don't need to worry about a thing.
ASE certification indicates that the technician passed an industry standardized test on general and specific knowledge relating to various means of automotive and truck repair.

For more information, visit ASE.com.
All modern vehicles utilize Powertrain Control Modules (PCM) - computers - to operate & control engine and drivetrain functions. This is used to maximize performance, driveability, and fuel economy. The PCM also monitors your vehicle emissions. If the PCM detects any component that is operating beyond its designated parameters, or a failed component, the light is illuminated to notify you of this operational problem. The nature of the failure must be determined to accurately repair the vehicle.

Not all "Check Engine Lights" are caused by a component failure. If the emissions system fails to operate correctly, the light will come on immediately. The light is intended to alert you to an operational problem, rather than a major mechanical issue.
ABS stands for Anti-lock Braking System. This system helps keep your vehicle from skidding the tires under hard braking. It utilizes sensors to detect each wheel's speed, and controls individual brake pressures. This keeps the brakes from locking, which prevents skidding. Many vehicles incorporate ABS into the Vehicle Stability Control (VSC) and Traction Control (TC) systems which helps make the vehicle more safe to drive. Occasionally these elaborate systems can affect transmission performance. Automatic Transmission Design is equipped to diagnose & repair Anti-lock Braking Systems, Vehicle Stability Control systems, and Traction Control systems.

All Wheel Drive & 4x4 vehicles also incorporate these and additional components & controls for their proper operation. The trained technicians at ATD are able to diagnose, service, and repair these components as well.