Gearstar Performance

Custom Transmission Build Team




Gearstar Performance Transmissions has been hand-building high-performance automatics in Akron, Ohio since 1996. Every unit is assembled start to finish by one builder, matched to the customer's engine, gearing and intended use, then dyno-tested before it ships. The build team writes here about transmission specs, install procedures, torque converter matching and what actually holds up behind real power.

Building a 4L60E With Performance-Friendly Gear Ratios

Building a 4L60E With Performance-Friendly Gear Ratios

Gearstar Performance 6 minute read

When adjusted with proper gear ratios and a set of the right aftermarket parts, the 4L60E can be just the high performance transmission you’re looking...

Let's Talk High Performance 4R70W Transmissions

Let's Talk High Performance 4R70W Transmissions

Gearstar Performance 6 minute read

The 4R70W is a Ford transmission, and generally considered an evolution to the AODE, a transmission that it is often interchanged with. Both are...

Installing Overdrive in an Early Model GM

Installing Overdrive in an Early Model GM

Gearstar Performance 6 minute read

There’s no doubting the air of Americana around a classic 50s-70s GM ride. In the golden age of American automobile manufacturing, we turned building cars...

Why GM, Ford Joined Forces to Develop 10-Speed Transmissions

Why GM, Ford Joined Forces to Develop 10-Speed Transmissions

Gearstar Performance 4 minute read

The motoring world is full of competition, both on and off the track. If people aren't competing to be the fastest in speed, they're competing to bring...

Taking 700R4 Performance to Higher Heights

Taking 700R4 Performance to Higher Heights

Gearstar Performance 7 minute read

They say a car is the sum of its parts – if you take but one piece out, then a well-made racing machine just flat out won’t work. Racing rigs are built...

AOD Transmission Buyers' Reference Guide

AOD Transmission Buyers' Reference Guide

Gearstar Performance 5 minute read

There was perhaps nothing more exciting out of the 80’s than the inception and incorporation of overdrive into automatic and manual transmissions. How can...