The modern automatic transmission is by far, the most complicated mechanical component in today's automobile. Automatic transmissions contain mechanical systems, hydraulic systems, electrical systems and computer controls, all working together in perfect harmony which goes virtually unnoticed until there is a problem. Our technicians will help you understand the concepts behind what goes on inside these technological marvels and give you an honest assessment into repairing or maintaining your transmission.
Mike Hohnstein
- President
- Founder of ATD
- In 1981 started Hipsters Brake and remains principle owner of Hipster Brakes
- In 1989 moved to the current location in Germantown known as Hipsters Garage which later became Automatic Transmission Design
Charlie McCormick
- Co-Owner & Manager
- Has been in the auto business since 1977
- Was the youngest ASE Certified Master Technician in Wisconsin at one point
- ASE Certified Master Technician since 1980
- Has been in the transmission service business since 1986
- Charlie started with ATD in 1990
Scott Moore
- ASE Certified Technician
- Co-Owner & Assistant Manager
- Has been in the auto business since 1980
- Has been working on transmissions since 1980
- Scott started with ATD in 2000
Greg Davies
- ASE Certified Master Technician
- Factory Chrysler Training
- Greg started with ATD in 2001
Automatic Transmission Design also has 2 full time machinists and 4 trained auto technicians on staff to provide a full range of services and repairs.
Basic Maintenance Tips For You
Transmission fluid should be changed periodically. Your owner's manual should give you the recommended intervals which could be anywhere from 15,000 miles to 100,000 miles. Most transmission experts recommend changing the fluid and filter every 25,000 miles.
Few transmissions have drain plugs to drain the old fluid. In order to get the fluid out, our technician removes the transmission oil pan. This is quite a messy job and generally not recommended for the casual do-it-yourselfer. Even if the transmission has a drain plug, the only way to also change the transmission filter is to remove the pan. When the pan is down, our technician can check for metal shavings and other debris which are indicators of impending transmission problems.
In most cases during these transmission services, only about half the oil is able to be removed from the unit. This is because much of the oil is in the torque converter and cooler lines and cannot be drained without major disassembly. The fluid change intervals are based on the fact that some old fluid remains in the system.
Let ATD Take Care of Your Transmission Needs
262-251-7777