Garage Trias

Garage Trias in Heemstede specializes in maintenance, repairs, overhauls, and preparation of pre- and post-war classic vehicles, as well as youngtimers. Additionally, they also maintain modern cars, both for road use and for the circuit.

Over the years, the company has built an excellent reputation, particularly in the field of various types of Healey cars, but other classic vehicles are also in expert hands here.

Mr. Kersten, owner of Garage Trias, received a 1954 Mercedes SL in 2010, where the automatic transmission was no longer functioning optimally. Since good parts for a complete overhaul were difficult to find and the transmission was still in fairly good condition, he sought an intermediate solution. This approach also prevented the customer from incurring the high costs typically associated with a full overhaul.

After contacting Frank Kleijn, it was decided to put the theory to the test with SWEPCO 714 Hydraulic Transmission Fluid Type TO-4;C-4 SAE 20 (ISO 46). He had already experienced with other vehicles that this ATF often provides a helpful solution when an overhaul is not yet immediately necessary.

• Shifting up and down became smooth again after replacing the ATF with SWEPCO 714 SAE-20, without squeaking or cracking sounds.
• The gearbox shifts more smoothly, making the car feel significantly quieter to the driver.
• Additionally, Garage Trias uses SWEPCO 105, SWEPCO 121, SWEPCO 210, SWEPCO 306 15W-40, and 20W-50 with similar results.

“The above is just one example. If there is a challenge where I suspect we can achieve the necessary improvement with a lubricant, I contact Frank Kleijn to see which SWEPCO product might provide the desired result. The manuals for the lubricants of some of my customers’ cars are no longer available, and it can sometimes be a puzzle to find the right product. In this way, what initially seem like bigger problems are often quite easy to solve and to the full satisfaction of the customer.” – Mr. W. Kersten, Owner.

Southwestern Petroleum Corporation thanks Garage Trias from Heemstede, a SWEPCO partner since 2009, and Field Service Representative Frank Kleijn for this information, which is based on actual customer experiences since 2014.
Results in other applications may vary. Always consult OEM specifications for the correct lubricant selection.