Returning CAT Transmissions to Like-New Performance
The transmission is the beating heart of the powertrain in heavy equipment. For operators of Caterpillar (CAT) machinery, a reliable transmission isn’t just a convenience—it’s the key to productivity, uptime, and profitability. At Industrial Reman, we specialize in the art and science of remanufacturing CAT transmissions to meet or exceed original factory performance, ensuring your equipment works as hard as you do.
Remanufacturing is not just a repair. It’s a complete transformation process that returns a used or failed transmission to like-new condition, incorporating the latest engineering updates and rigorous quality standards. Here’s how our team brings every CAT transmission back to life.
1. Comprehensive Disassembly and Inspection
Every remanufacturing project begins with a meticulous teardown. Our technicians drain fluids, remove external components, and then strip the transmission down to its smallest individual parts. Nothing is left assembled.
Each part is inspected using both visual and precision measurement techniques. We check housings for cracks or distortion, examine gears for pitting or wear, and measure shafts, clutch packs, and bearing bores against Caterpillar’s original equipment manufacturer (OEM) tolerances. Any part that doesn’t meet CAT’s exact standards is flagged for replacement.
2. Industrial-Grade Cleaning and Decontamination
Cleanliness is critical in transmission longevity, and even the smallest particle can cause damage once in operation. That’s why we use a multi-stage cleaning process.
Components are first treated in industrial degreasers to remove oil, grease, and contaminants. From there, they may be placed in ultrasonic tanks for deep-penetrating cleaning or blasted with high-pressure aqueous systems to flush out every oil passage. Any old paint or corrosion is removed to prepare surfaces for refinishing.
3. Precision Measurement and Quality Control
Once clean, every part undergoes detailed dimensional checks. Using micrometers, bore gauges, and dial indicators, we verify that each component falls within the strict tolerances specified by Caterpillar engineering data.
This stage is where we decide which components can be reused, which need machining, and which will be replaced with new CAT-certified parts. Wear components like bearings, seals, gaskets, clutch discs, and friction plates are always replaced—no exceptions.
4. Updating with New Parts and Engineering Improvements
One advantage of a remanufactured CAT transmission is that it often leaves our facility better than it was when originally built. That’s because Caterpillar continuously releases design upgrades and service information notices (SINs) to improve performance and reliability.
At Industrial Reman, we incorporate these updates into every unit we build. This means your reman transmission isn’t just restored—it’s brought up to the most current CAT engineering standards.
5. Machining and Restoration Work
If a part can be restored to perfect condition, our in-house machining department makes it happen. Housings can be line-bored to correct shaft alignment, sealing surfaces can be re-machined to eliminate leaks, and worn bores can be sleeved for a precise fit.
We also handle thread repairs, weld-build worn surfaces, and apply surface finishes to match OEM specifications. This meticulous attention to detail ensures every part performs flawlessly once assembled.
6. Controlled Environment Reassembly
Reassembly is where the precision of our earlier steps pays off. Working in clean-room conditions, our technicians build the transmission back from the ground up, using CAT-approved assembly procedures.
Every fastener is torqued to exact specifications using calibrated tools. Hydraulic systems are rebuilt with new seals and tested for proper oil flow. For electronically controlled transmissions, we inspect and test all solenoids and control modules before installation.
7. Transmission Dyno Testing
Before any transmission leaves our facility, it must prove itself on our transmission dynamometer. This specialized test stand allows us to simulate real-world loads and operating conditions.
During testing, we verify:
- Smooth gear shifts
- Correct clutch engagement pressures
- Proper oil flow and temperature regulation
- Noise and vibration levels within acceptable limits
Any issues detected are corrected immediately—long before the transmission is returned to the customer.
8. Final Finishing, Tagging, and Documentation
Once the transmission has passed dyno testing, it moves to finishing. We apply CAT-approved corrosion-resistant paint, install identification tags for warranty tracking, and prepare all documentation.
This includes a detailed test report that records every measurement, replacement, and adjustment made during the remanufacturing process. For customers, this means full transparency and confidence in the quality of the work.
Why Choose Industrial Reman for CAT Transmissions?
- CAT-Certified Standards: We follow Caterpillar OEM specifications at every step.
- Upgraded Performance: Every reman unit includes the latest engineering improvements.
- Guaranteed Quality: Our reman transmissions come with a same-as-new warranty.
- Full Transparency: We provide complete testing and measurement documentation.
- Rapid Turnaround: Our streamlined process minimizes downtime for your fleet.
Whether you operate a CAT 988K wheel loader, a 777G haul truck, or another piece of heavy equipment, we have the expertise, equipment, and inventory to deliver a transmission that’s ready to perform in the most demanding environments.
The Industrial Reman Difference
Some shops focus on quick repairs or partial rebuilds. At Industrial Reman, our philosophy is different: do it right the first time. That means replacing every wear component, re-machining parts to precise tolerances, and testing under full load before the unit ever reaches your site.
Our technicians aren’t just mechanics—they’re remanufacturing specialists. They understand the complex hydraulics, electronics, and precision engineering that go into every CAT transmission. By combining skill with advanced tooling and Caterpillar’s own specifications, we deliver transmissions that match—or exceed—the reliability of new units.
Supporting Your Operation for the Long Haul
A remanufactured transmission isn’t just a cost-effective alternative to new—it’s a strategic investment. You save money up front, reduce downtime, and get a product that’s engineered to perform for thousands of hours in the field.
And with Industrial Reman’s commitment to quality, you also get peace of mind. Our warranty coverage mirrors that of a brand-new transmission, so you can put it to work immediately with confidence.
Industrial Reman is proud to be a trusted partner for fleet managers, contractors, and equipment owners across industries. When your CAT transmission needs more than a repair—when it needs to be truly reborn—our team is ready to deliver.
Contact us today to learn how our CAT transmission remanufacturing services can keep your operation moving, no matter how tough the job.