What are common signs of a failing marine transmission?

Slipping gears, delayed shifting, grinding noises, or difficulty going into forward or reverse are all signs your transmission may need service. We diagnose and repair gearboxes for smooth, reliable operation.

Do you repair both inboard and sterndrive marine transmissions?

Yes – we service inboard transmissions like ZF, Velvet Drive, and Borg Warner, as well as Bravo and Alpha sterndrives. From fluid leaks to gear damage, we’ve got you covered.

Can old or contaminated transmission fluid cause damage?

Absolutely. Dirty or low fluid leads to overheating and premature wear. We flush the system, inspect seals and coolers, and refill with marine-grade ATF to restore performance and protect your drivetrain.

How much does marine transmission repair usually cost?

Basic repairs like seal replacement start at $300. Full transmission rebuilds range from $1,200–$3,000 depending on the model, damage, and parts required. We provide free diagnostics with repair.

Why does my boat jerk when shifting into gear?

Harsh or jerky shifts can be caused by worn clutch packs, misaligned shafts, or hydraulic pressure loss. We’ll pinpoint the cause and ensure your boat shifts smoothly and safely.

Do you offer mobile transmission diagnostics at the dock?

Yes – we perform on-site transmission testing and fluid checks across all Los Angeles and Orange County marinas. Whether it’s a minor leak or a full rebuild, we’ll diagnose it right at your slip.

Do you service marine transmissions for Volvo Penta and MerCruiser?

Definitely. We repair and rebuild transmissions for Volvo Penta, MerCruiser, Yanmar, ZF, and more. We use OEM or top-tier aftermarket parts to ensure long-term reliability.

What is a marine gearbox cooler and why does it need cleaning?

A marine gearbox cooler regulates transmission oil temperature using seawater. Over time, salt, debris, and marine growth can restrict flow, leading to overheating. Regular cleaning ensures proper cooling and protects the gearbox.

What problems can a clogged gearbox cooler cause?

A clogged cooler can cause high transmission temperatures, slipping gears, contaminated oil, and premature gearbox failure. Early cleaning helps avoid expensive transmission repairs.

What does gearbox cooler cleaning include?

The service includes removing the cooler, flushing internal passages, clearing salt and debris, inspecting fittings, and reinstalling the unit to restore proper cooling performance.

Why is pressure testing the gearbox cooler important?

Pressure testing checks for internal leaks that could allow seawater into the transmission oil. Detecting leaks early prevents oil contamination and serious gearbox damage.

How often should a gearbox cooler be cleaned and tested?

We recommend inspection and cleaning every 100–200 engine hours or annually, especially for boats operating in saltwater or warm environments.

Can this service extend the life of my marine transmission?

Yes, maintaining clean cooling passages and leak-free operation reduces heat stress and oil contamination, significantly extending gearbox and transmission lifespan.

Do you inspect transmission oil during the service?

Absolutely. We inspect transmission oil for signs of water intrusion or overheating and provide recommendations if fluid replacement or further service is needed.

What is a damper plate and what does it do?

A damper plate is mounted between the engine and transmission and absorbs engine vibration and shock. It protects the drivetrain and reduces rattling noises, especially at idle and low RPMs.

What are the symptoms of a failing damper plate?

Common symptoms include rattling or clunking noises at idle, vibration when shifting gears, and harsh engagement into forward or reverse. Ignoring these signs can lead to transmission damage.

Can a bad damper plate damage my transmission?

Yes. A worn damper plate allows excessive shock to transfer directly into the transmission, which can cause premature wear or failure of internal gearbox components.

How do you confirm that the damper plate needs replacement?

We inspect for noise patterns, check drivetrain alignment, and verify play between the engine and transmission. In many cases, the damper plate condition can only be confirmed once the transmission is removed.

How long does damper plate replacement take?

Most damper plate replacements take one full day, depending on engine access and configuration. We also inspect mounts, alignment, and coupler components during the process.

Do you replace the damper plate with OEM or upgraded parts?

We install OEM or heavy-duty marine-grade damper plates designed for your engine and drive type. Upgraded plates are available for higher torque engines or heavy-use applications.

Transmission repair boat

Keep your boat running smoothly with our top-notch transmission repair services. Whether you are experiencing issues with shifting, noise, or performance, our expert technicians have the experience and know-how to diagnose and fix any transmission problem your boat may have.

Our transmission repair services include complete inspections, diagnostics, and maintenance to ensure that your boat's transmission is operating at its best. We use high-quality parts and the latest technology to provide efficient and reliable repairs, giving you peace of mind while out on the water.

Don't let transmission issues ruin your time on the water. Trust our team to provide professional and affordable transmission repair services that will get you back to enjoying your boating adventures in no time. With our quick turnaround times and excellent customer service, you can be confident that your boat is in good hands.

Whether you have a small fishing boat or a large yacht, we have the expertise to handle any transmission repair job. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us help keep your boat running smoothly for years to come.

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