Overview
The ZF 0730.304.068 SHIM is a precision-engineered OEM genuine component designed to establish exact axial clearances and preload settings within heavy-duty ZF transmissions. This shim sits between the differential housing and bearing races, ensuring that gear meshing patterns remain within factory tolerances under extreme load conditions. The SKU 0730.304.068 is critical for maintaining drivetrain rigidity in construction machinery, preventing unwanted movement that accelerates wear on adjacent components such as the 5838109012: DIFFERENTIAL and the 0750117075: TAPER ROLLER BEARING.
Symptoms of Failure
When the 0730.304.068 shim wears or deforms, operators will notice distinct driveline disturbances. A common symptom is intermittent gear slipping under load, particularly when the machine is climbing or carrying a heavy bucket. Another frequent indicator is excessive axial play in the differential assembly, which can be felt as a clunk during direction changes. You may also observe premature bearing noise from the taper roller bearing, as incorrect shim thickness alters the bearing preload. Finally, oil contamination with metallic particles often appears in the transmission sump, signaling that the shim has worn through its surface coating.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 0730.304.068 |
| Material | Hardened spring steel (C67S) with phosphate coating |
| Outer Diameter | 68.0 mm |
| Inner Diameter | 42.5 mm |
| Thickness | 0.30 mm (selective fit tolerance ±0.02 mm) |
| Weight | 18 grams |
| OEM Reference | ZF 0730.304.068 |
| Hardness | HRC 45–50 |
Compatibility
This shim is engineered for ZF powershift transmissions commonly found in wheel loaders, graders, and excavators. It is a direct fit for the ZF WG180, ZF WG200, and ZF WG210 series. The part also applies to certain ZF 4WG-200 and ZF 6WG-250 models used in construction machinery. For precise installation, always pair this shim with the 5838300626: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING and the 2093209023: DIFFERENTIAL to ensure correct stack-up height.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 5838109012 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes torque to axle shafts |
| 0750117075 | TAPER ROLLER BEARING | Supports differential rotation under axial loads |
| 2093209023 | DIFFERENTIAL | Secondary differential for multi-axle drive |
| 5838300626 | DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING | Encloses and supports differential gears |
| 0631329088 | SPRING PIN | Secures shim and gear alignment |
| 5838300811 | THRUST WASHER | Reduces axial friction in gear sets |
| 5838300721 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Transfers power to axle shafts |
| 5838300633 | AXLE | Drives wheel hubs |
| 5838300753 | THRUST WASHER | Controls end-play in planetary gears |
| 5838300818 | THRUST WASHER | Prevents gear face wear |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I reuse the 0730.304.068 shim after disassembly?
A: No. ZF shims are designed for single-use only. The phosphate coating deforms during initial torque application, and reusing the shim will result in incorrect preload and accelerated bearing wear.
Q: How do I measure the correct shim thickness for my transmission?
A: Use a depth micrometer to measure the bearing bore depth in the differential housing, then subtract the bearing width. The 0730.304.068 is a 0.30 mm shim; if your calculated gap differs, select the appropriate shim from the ZF selective-fit range (0.10 mm to 0.50 mm increments).
Q: Will this shim work with aftermarket differentials?
A: This OEM shim is dimensionally matched to genuine ZF differentials. Using it with non-OEM components such as the 5838109012: DIFFERENTIAL is recommended only if the aftermarket part meets ZF’s original surface finish specifications.
📞 Need this part? Contact our ZF specialists:
Email: info@partszf.com |
Phone: +86 158 2286 3467 |
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