THE HISTORY BEHIND A SOUTHERN OREGON CLASSIC.
At Dusty’s Transmissions, we take pride in offering a wide range of services to keep your vehicle running smoothly. Whether you’re looking for routine maintenance or specialized repairs, our skilled technicians have you covered.
THE HISTORY BEHIND A SOUTHERN OREGON CLASSIC.
In 1960, Interstate 5 was constructed half a mile east of Central Point. The Expo was built in 1974 across the highway, leading to the development of trucking facilities and businesses around the interchange. Between 1980 and 2010, Central Point’s population grew significantly, from 6,300 to 17,000.
WE’VE BEEN INTO TRANSMISSIONS SINCE ‘79
On April 1st, 1979, Dave Duste Sr. opened the doors to Dusty’s Transmissions.
LITTLE DUSTY
When Dusty’s opened in 1979, the area was sparsely populated, so Dave Duste Sr. had to get creative to attract attention. One day, his young son Matt, just 6 or 7 years old, climbed into a transmission case, sparking a unique idea. Dave took an old kitchen chair, used it to build legs, and dressed it with a pair of Matt’s childhood pants and shoes. The resulting “transmission-eating-a-small-child” sign became an iconic symbol in the Central Point/Medford area, embodying Dusty’s playful spirit and memorable brand.
Originally, in 1979, Dusty's operated from a modest two-bay facility without any lifts. By the 1990’s, the shop had undergone significant expansion, boasting 8 lifts and an additional 2,000 square feet of space.
BY 2009 DUSTY’S HAD SERVICED THOUSANDS OF TRANSMISSIONS. RAPID, RELIABLE, EXPERTS HELPING CUSTOMERS GET BACK ON THE ROAD WITH CONFIDENCE.
“WE’RE INTO TRANSMISSIONS”
Dusty's purchased a property next door, which doubled its acreage and added another 1200 square feet of shop space.
BUSINESS IS GROWING
Dusty's has become a true hometown, all-American shop, passed down through generations. In 2016, Matt purchased Dusty's from his father, Dave, continuing the legacy that began decades ago. Now, Matt’s son, Tony, is learning the business from both his father and grandfather, further strengthening their family commitment to quality and tradition.
GEARS MAGAZINE FEATURE
Central Point has a population of about 18,000, with the neighboring town of Medford adding another 80,000, bringing the total market to just under 100,000 people. While that’s not a large population to sustain a transmission and drivetrain-only repair shop, Dusty’s has become a blueprint for successful transitions in the industry, inspiring businesses around the globe.
1979
1989
1990
1999
2000
2004
2016
Three Generations of Excellence:
Our Commitment to Quality:
Experience the Difference:
Choose Dusty’s Transmissions for quality, integrity, and reliable service. Let’s keep your vehicle running smoothly!
Family-Operated Since 1979. Three generations, committed to excellence.