Peerless Gear acquires several brands

Peerless Gear has purchased several legacy power-equipment brands including Comet Clutch, TecumsehPower, and Hoffco Outdoor Power Equipment. The move consolidates these brands into Peerless Gear’s operations, located in Salem, Ind., and allows for expanded production capabilities for in-house machining and assembly. 

The goal of this sale is to create a one-stop shop for OEMs needing drive-train solutions, such as components used in UTVs, ATVs, snowmobiles, and industrial or residential ride-on equipment. Since 1945, Peerless Gear has produced finished drivetrain products for a wide range of industries, while Hoffco/Comet and TecumsehPower have been known for their products since 1949.

Paul Bechwar, President of Peerless Gear, and James Grafft, Founder and Owner of Certified Parts Corporation, both emphasized the strategic fit of these companies under the Peerless umbrella. Grafft added the sale will, ensure continued production of legacy components and service parts, including those for TecumsehPower engines and reshored carburetors, which aligns with the goal of keeping manufacturing “Made in the USA.”

This sale represents the realization of a vision that was discussed as early as the 1980s, though previous attempts to join these entities were unsuccessful. The deal is expected to be finalized in early 2025.

CPC, founded in 1982, has a mission to preserve and revitalize iconic legacy brands and has a strong history of turning around companies at risk of extinction. Along with its focus on manufacturing service parts, CPC has become a major supplier to OEMs and is also known for its vintage brands like Indian, Rupp, and Chris-Craft, among others. The company’s commitment to preserving history while embracing opportunities for growth and innovation continues to guide its path.