Coan Engineering

For local users with a passion for automotive performance, particularly in the realm of racing and high-power street applications, Coan Engineering is a name that resonates with quality and innovation. Operating within the "Auto Repair Stations" category, but with a unique specialization, Coan Engineering is primarily a manufacturer and supplier of high-performance automatic transmissions, torque converters, and related components. Their expertise is deeply rooted in the demanding world of motorsports, extending to drag racing, off-road racing, monster trucks, and the performance street market. This makes them a distinct entity, offering specialized goods rather than general repair services.

Coan Engineering's environment is characterized by a strong focus on precision engineering and advanced manufacturing. Founded in 1976 by Dave Coan in Kokomo, Indiana, a town with a rich automotive heritage, the company began as a two-man operation with a clear goal: to offer better, more refined products for the drag racing market. This founding principle of performance, reliability, and unwavering commitment to customers continues to define their operational environment. The company boasts over 40,000 square feet of manufacturing and warehousing space, utilizing state-of-the-art CAD/CAM design and modeling software, alongside the best in CNC turning and machining centers. This dedication to cutting-edge technology ensures exacting tolerances and superior product quality. Their team includes licensed drag racers and dirt track competitors, signifying a deep, practical understanding of the components they produce and the environments in which they perform. This hands-on involvement in the racing community means their products are rigorously tested and refined on the track, rather than just in a lab.

Unlike a typical auto repair station that offers general maintenance, Coan Engineering's "services" revolve around the design, manufacturing, and supply of highly specialized automotive components. Their product catalog is extensive and caters to the specific needs of high-performance vehicles. Key product categories include:

• High Performance Automatic Transmissions: They design and build transmissions like the Powerglide, TH400, TH350, and their proprietary "Coan Three Speed" for various racing classes, including Stock, Super Stock, and Competition Eliminator. These transmissions often feature lightweight aluminum rotating assemblies and are built to withstand extreme horsepower.
• High Performance Torque Converters: Coan Engineering is renowned for its torque converters, including pioneering the use of steel stators in maximum performance converters and designing precise seven-inch torque converters for class racers. They offer a range of street performance, Pro Street, and Competition series converters.
• Transmission Planetary Gears: Manufacturing robust and high-strength planetary gear sets for improved durability and performance under strenuous conditions.
• Billet Transmission Components: Producing a variety of billet aluminum and steel components, such as direct drums, valve bodies, pressure plate supports, and clutch hubs, designed for superior strength and longevity.
• Custom Component Parts: Offering a wide array of individual components like gaskets, separator plates, sprags, solenoids, and valves, allowing for precise customization and repair of performance transmissions.
• Technical Support and Consultation: While not a repair shop, their deep expertise allows them to provide significant technical support to customers, assisting with product selection, application specifics, and troubleshooting their specialized components. They also work with distributors and retailers who can provide local sales and installation support.

Coan Engineering's distinctive features are heavily geared towards the performance aftermarket:

• Engineering Excellence: Their use of advanced CAD/CAM and CNC technologies ensures precision and consistent quality in every component. This commitment to engineering is a core pillar of their operation.
• Racing Heritage and Testing: With Dave Coan being a racer himself and the company employing numerous licensed racers, their products benefit from extensive real-world, on-track testing. This direct involvement in the racing community validates their product performance and reliability under extreme conditions. They operate company-owned cars in various classes (Competition Eliminator, Super Comp, Bracket racing) for continuous product development and refinement.
• Pioneering Innovations: Coan Engineering played a significant role in introducing the first transbrakes for Powerglide, TH400, and TH350 transmissions – a standard in the industry today. They also pioneered the use of steel stators in high-performance torque converters, showcasing their innovative spirit.
• "Made in the USA" Quality: Since 1976, Coan Engineering products have been designed and manufactured in Indiana, emphasizing a commitment to American craftsmanship and quality control.
• Specialized Focus: Their narrow but deep specialization in transmissions and torque converters for performance applications allows them to excel in this niche, offering products that meet the rigorous demands of racing and high-horsepower street vehicles.
• Customer-Centric Commitment: Despite their industrial scale, the founding principle of commitment to customers remains. They aim to provide "A Winning Combination" of performance and support, whether for novice enthusiasts or professional sportsmen racers.

Coan Engineering's promotional activities and customer benefits are largely channeled through their engagement with the racing community and partnerships with distributors:

• Sponsorships and Track Partnerships: Coan Engineering actively partners with racing venues, such as sponsoring the "Coan Engineering Winner's Circle" at Bunker Hill Dragstrip. This provides visibility and directly connects them with their target audience. Winning drivers often receive exclusive Coan Engineering branded merchandise, reinforcing brand loyalty.
• Direct-to-Racer Programs: There are indications of programs like offering a free test and tune at Bunker Hill Dragstrip with the purchase of Coan transmissions or torque converters, directly benefiting racers who invest in their products. This provides practical value beyond the initial purchase.
• Distribution Network: While direct sales are possible, Coan Engineering products are also available through major performance automotive retailers and distributors like JEGS Performance and Pit Stop USA. These partnerships make their specialized components accessible to a broader customer base, often through online stores with detailed product descriptions.
• Technical Sales and Support: Customers are encouraged to contact their technical sales staff for complete information and assistance, highlighting a focus on providing expert guidance for complex performance applications.
• Warranty: Coan Engineering typically offers a limited warranty (e.g., 90 days for new products, 30 days for repair service) covering flaws in material and craftsmanship, providing assurance to buyers of their high-performance components.

For local users, Coan Engineering represents a premier destination for those seeking to enhance their vehicle's power and durability, especially for racing and high-performance driving. Their rich history, commitment to innovation, and deep involvement in motorsports underscore their position as a leader in specialized automotive driveline components.