The individual effects of system configuration, relative stage position and buffer capacity allocation in automatic transfer line systems were investigated through computer simulation experiments. The breakdown and repair rates used in this study were 1/400, 1/200, 1/50 and 1/20 respectively. Steady-state responses on the production rate, in-process average stock and mean delay time were statistically analysed using the fixed effects analysis of variance model and Duncan's multiple range test. A table of preferred system designs with respect to each individual factor and response was developed as a useful guide for design purpose.