GearStar FAQs

The AOD in stock form can really only handle stock power levels. Before planning any engine mods to an AOD equipped vehicle, you should install our AOD Valve Body Kit. Installation of the Valve Body kit will allow this transmission to perform reliably in a 325 to 350 horsepower application. If your power goals are higher, you should consider an AOD Performance Transmission from our product catalog.

The most common reason for this is that the converter was not fully seated in the pump, which should have shown itself when there was difficulty turning the converter. Providing you have enough fluid in it, remove one line from the transmission cooler. Start the vehicle and fluid should come spraying out. If this does not happen, you may have broken the pump and will need to remove the transmission and repair. Hopefully, you have not destroyed the converter.

Get a case (12 quarts) and add until full. You may have a couple of bottles leftover but it’s better to have more that than not enough when all the stores are closed.

No, the bell housing for the AOD is integral to the case.

The recommendation for the fluid service can vary for different vehicle manufacturers. On average, it is recommended to do it every 15,000 miles or once a year. Bring your vehicle in and let us check for leaks and other issues that may arise.

To make the transmission last longer, don’t ignore it. Check the transmission fluid level and condition periodically and repair any leaks or problems right away. That way, there won’t be any future damage. The most important thing is to service the transmission on a regular basis. If the vehicle is used for towing, hauling, commercial usage, or in high ambient temperatures, use an auxiliary cooler to help it last longer.

Another good question that we are asked frequently. It shows the owner of the vehicle doesn’t want to risk doing more damage and raising the repair cost. A lot depends on the rate of fluid loss. If it’s a small leak, and you are very diligent about keeping the fluid level at the proper level, it’s okay to drive it in to get it looked at. It the fluid is pouring out, don’t drive it. If you have one of many vehicles not equipped with a dipstick, you can’t check it. If the unit exhibits any abnormal operation, then the internal damage is occurring, and a minor leak can result in a major bill if not corrected promptly.

• Too much oil
• Pump halves not flush, causing a cross leak into vent or into drain, causing foaming.
• VB cross leak blowing out into oil, therefore foaming the oil.
• Pump gaskets blown on pressure or suction side.
• Broken torque converter, or too much torque converter clearance.
• Over heated oil, which raises the overall oil level.