ASTON MARTIN DBS MANUAL V12 08-12 MANUAL 6-SPEED TRANSMISSION 8D33-700

Aston Martin DBS V12 (2008–2012) manual transmission is one of the most revered components in modern automotive history. While the standard DB9 primarily used the Touchtronic automatic, the DBS launched as a “driver’s flagship” with a traditional 6-speed manual transaxle.

The part number you are referencing, 8D33-7001-AA, identifies the complete 6-speed Graziano manual gearbox assembly.

1. Technical Breakdown

• Manufacturer: Graziano Trasmissioni (Italy).

   

• Type: Rear-mounted transaxle. By placing the gearbox at the rear, Aston Martin achieved a near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution.

   

• Clutch: A high-performance hydraulically operated twin-plate organic clutch, specifically designed to handle the 420 lb-ft of torque from the 6.0L V12 without becoming too heavy for daily use.

   

• Gearing: The manual DBS features shorter gearing than its automatic counterpart. This makes the car feel significantly more responsive and allows it to reach $60\text{ mph}$ in just 4.1 seconds, compared to 4.3 seconds for the Touchtronic.

2. Why the “8D33” Matters

The 8D33 prefix signifies parts developed specifically for the DBS (D) in the 2008 model year (8).

• Vs. DB9: While the DB9 also offered a manual, the DBS unit has strengthened internals and a unique final drive ratio (3.71:1).

   

• The Shifter: This gearbox is paired with the iconic Satin Alloy Gear Knob (8D33-7K327-AB), machined from a single block of aluminum.

   

3. Common Maintenance & Issues

• Cold Notchiness: It is very common for this gearbox to feel “stiff” or “notchy” when cold, particularly between 1st and 2nd gear. This usually disappears once the transmission oil reaches operating temperature.

• Clutch Wear: The twin-plate clutch is robust but expensive to replace. A “clutch shudder” when pulling away in 1st gear is the first sign of wear. Replacement is a labor-intensive “rear-end out” procedure.

• Oil Cooler Lines: The transaxle has its own cooling circuit. The lines at the rear of the car are prone to minor weeping over time; ensure these are inspected to prevent the gearbox from running low on fluid.