10/01/2026
October 1st is a momentous day for Summit Transmission, both historically and today!
On October 1, 1990 Larry Elbert (Sr) took over the ownership and operations of Summit Transmission from its previous owner Andy D. During the past 36 years, Summit has continued to be owned and operated by Larry Sr. In 2004, Summit relocated to Hanover from Richmond Hill and had the task of building a new customer base from scratch, except for classic car owners who will travel great distances to have their pride and joy repaired.
In February 2017, Larry Elbert (Jr) joined the company in a full time position. Prior to that, Larry Jr had grown up in and with the business, having his first pair of company coveralls at the age of 2 and he’s been turning wrenches ever since. Larry Jr fulfilled his entire apprenticeship under the watchful eye of Larry Sr and as an added bonus, gained a thorough understanding of transmissions.
In March of this year, Summit welcomed two more family members to the company as apprentices. Jeremy and Ben both bring with them a wealth of engine knowledge, having completed a certificate program in engine rebuilding. They too have grown up alongside the business and turning wrenches.
This entire family has a long history of personally owned vehicles, many bought in serious need of repairs. What better way to learn the trade in your adolescent years than working on your own pride and joy? The collection over the years dates as far back as 1934 to not so current cars, trucks and motorcycles, as well as a drag car built and raced personally by Larry Jr.
So it only seems fitting to announce the start of a new chapter on October 1, 2026 with Larry Jr becoming part owner and President of Summit Transmission. With the change in ownership, we look forward to seeing some new developments for the business, but rest assured, some things will not change. We are NOT going to become AI driven, you will still call and get a friendly person on the phone and YES we still prefer phone calls over email and text. As a family owned and operated business PLUS ONE (Dave) we strive to keep the relationship with our customers personal. One change you may see as time goes on, Larry Sr may not be around as much as he begins to enjoy a little more freedom in semi-retirement. Honestly, he had intended to retire sooner but now having the whole family working together, it has created an excitement he can’t resist.
So on this day, October 1, 2026 I personally would like to say…
Congratulations to Larry Sr for buying and building a business worthy of new ownership
Congratulations to Larry Jr for having the passion and knowledge to excel in this field and continue the family business
Congratulations and official welcome to Jeremy and Ben to the family business
And to the rest of our staff…Dave, Chelsea and myself, may we enjoy all our days working with these guys. They may not be as famous as the Beatles, The A Team or the Fantastic 4 but most days are just as exciting.
Signed One Proud Wife, Mom & Bookkeeper
