Where Are We Located?

We are located in the Shenandoah Valley with a physical office and warehouse just outside of Harrisonburg VA (GO JMU)!

We are a wholesale distributor and we source products from warehouses all across the United States. Learn More Here.

What is the difference between Remanufactured, Rebuilt, and Used?

Remanufactured
A remanufactured product is restored to a condition as close to new as possible. This means the part has been rebuilt to meet the same standards as a brand-new part. Key components are thoroughly inspected and remachined to meet OEM tolerances. All internal wear-prone parts are replaced with brand-new components. For remanufactured engines, every unit includes a new oil pump and a complimentary gasket set.

Rebuilt
Rebuilt parts are disassembled and repaired only at the points of failure. While this process addresses the specific issues, many wear-prone components are reused, and little to no comprehensive testing is conducted.

Used
Used parts are salvaged directly from donor vehicles, often sourced from salvage yards. These parts are typically left in their original condition, though they may be cleaned and minimally tested.

What is a Core?

When you purchase a new or remanufactured product, you are required to return your old, defective product—this process is known as a core return. Core returns are essential for two key reasons: they ensure proper disposal of used products and provide the materials needed to create new remanufactured products. Components such as castings, casings, and certain internal parts are carefully inspected, remachined, and reused whenever possible, contributing to sustainable manufacturing practices.

Retail Customer Core Charge

Retail customers are required to purchase the core upfront. If the customer returns the core, a refund will be provided once the core has been received by the warehouse.

What is a Core Charge?

A core charge is a refundable fee assessed based on the value of the core (your old part) associated with the item you are purchasing. This charge applies if you choose not to return your core, if your core is damaged, or if it is not returned within the specified time frame.

The amount of the core charge varies depending on the item. Once you return the core, the charge is refunded. However, in some cases, the core charge may still apply if the returned item is deemed unusable.

Core Return Instructions

Once your new unit is installed and ready for use, returning your core is easy:

1. Contact Us: Contact our Core Team, and we’ll provide you with a Bill of Lading (BOL). Alternatively, you can complete our online form, available under the "Core Return" tab at the top of any page.
2. Prepare for Pickup: Once you receive the BOL, print two copies and have them ready for the carrier. When the carrier arrives, provide both copies for the shipment.

Important Notes

• If you return the core on your own without coordinating with Drivetrain Direct, you will be responsible for all freight charges.

Return Guidelines

To qualify for core credit:

1. Original Packaging: The core must be returned in its original packaging.
2. Fully Assembled: The core must match the build level of the replacement part.
3. Visually Remanufacturable: The core must be in a condition suitable for remanufacturing.

Core Charge Policy

• The unit price does not include the core charge.
• Cores must be returned within 30 days to avoid being charged.
• U.S. customers: Please contact Drivetrain Direct to schedule your core return.
• Non-U.S. customers: Core charges will be evaluated based on cost-effectiveness.

Transmission Quality Checks

Our meticulous process ensures each transmission meets the highest standards for performance, reliability, and durability. Key checks include:

• Disassembly and Cleaning: All transmissions are completely disassembled and cleaned. Cases are media blasted to restore their original finish.
• Inspection and Replacement: Internal parts are inspected and replaced as needed. 100% of friction components, seals, O-rings, and gaskets are replaced with new, heavy-duty parts.
• Component Checks: Solenoids are tested for duty cycle performance, and internal wiring harnesses are inspected.
• Valve Body Reconditioning: Valve bodies are fully disassembled, cleaned, machined if required, and tested for proper operation.
• Testing: Every transmission undergoes dynamometer testing to ensure proper pressure, shift quality, and performance across the entire operating range, including torque converter stall speed and lockup.

Engine Quality Checks

Our comprehensive process ensures every engine meets the highest standards for quality and reliability. Key checks include:

• Engine Blocks: Every block is magnaflux tested for cracks, machined on CNC centers, and honed. Every engine receives 100% new pistons, rings, and bearings.
• Cylinder Heads: All heads are resurfaced and inspected. New valves, seals, and lifters are installed in every head.
• Connecting Rods & Crankshafts: Rods are inspected against OEM specs, and crankshafts are machined on a CNC grinder for precision.
• Dynamic Engine Testing: Engines undergo SIM testing, where they are cold-motored to check for torque-to-turn, cylinder compression, oil flow and pressure, and leaks.

Torque Converter Quality Checks

Rigorous quality checks ensure each torque converter delivers reliable performance. Key checks include:

• Dynamic Balancing & Furnace Brazing: 100% of converters are dynamically balanced and pumps undergo furnace brazing for strength.
• New Components: All bearings, O-rings, springs, rollers, thrust washers, and friction liners are replaced with new components.
• Precision Measurements: Converter endplay, hub runout, and diameter are measured to meet exact specifications.

Transfer Case Quality Checks

These checks guarantee each transfer case meets or exceeds OEM standards. Key checks include:

• Inspection and Testing: Case halves and internal components are 100% inspected. Each unit undergoes a spin test to verify shift-ability and detect noise.
• Replacement and Certification: 100% of seals are replaced, and bearings are certified to meet manufacturer specifications.
• Sealing and Leak Testing: Loctite Gasket Eliminator is used on mating surfaces, and an air pressure leak-down test is conducted to confirm the unit is free of leaks.

Certified Pre-Owned Engines

A Certified Pre-Owned engine from Drivetrain Direct is similar to a Certified Pre-Owned vehicle. These engines undergo a rigorous inspection on a SIM test stand to evaluate:

• Compression: To verify proper cylinder sealing.
• Oil Pressure and Flow: To ensure adequate lubrication.
• Torque to Turn: To measure internal resistance.
• VVT/VCT Systems: To confirm proper function for performance and efficiency.

While mileage varies, maintenance history is a more significant factor in engine quality. Our thorough process ensures every Certified Pre-Owned engine meets high standards, offering a dependable, high-value replacement solution.