ZF 0730.109.406 SHIM | OEM Genuine Part

Overview

Precision shims are critical for maintaining correct axial clearances and preload within heavy-duty ZF transmissions. The ZF 0730.109.406 SHIM is an OEM genuine part designed to sit between gear faces and bearing races, ensuring that the differential assembly operates within its specified tolerances. This shim compensates for manufacturing variances and wear, preventing excessive gear movement that leads to premature failure. The SKU 0730.109.406 is a factory-spec component, guaranteeing exact thickness and hardness for reliable load distribution in construction machinery drivelines.

Symptoms of Failure

When the ZF 0730.109.406 shim wears or collapses, it directly impacts transmission stability. Look for these specific failure indicators:

• Excessive gear backlash and clunking – A worn shim allows the differential gears to drift, creating a noticeable “clunk” when shifting between forward and reverse under load.
• Premature bearing noise (whirring or growling) – Incorrect shim thickness reduces preload on the 0750117075: TAPER ROLLER BEARING, causing the rollers to skid and generate heat.
• Oil leaks from the axle housing – A collapsed shim shifts the 5838300626: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING alignment, distorting the seal surface and allowing lubricant to escape.
• Intermittent wheel slip under heavy load – Loss of axial control in the differential carrier causes the 5838109012: DIFFERENTIAL to momentarily lose torque transfer, felt as a hesitation during digging or climbing.

Technical Specifications

Parameter	Value
Part Number / SKU	0730.109.406
Material	Case-hardened spring steel (C67S equivalent)
Outer Diameter	89.5 mm
Inner Diameter	62.0 mm
Thickness	0.40 mm (nominal)
Hardness	HRC 45-50
Weight	18 g
OEM Reference	ZF 0730.109.406
Related Part – 0631329088: SPRING PIN	Secures shim stack in differential carrier
Related Part – 5838300811: THRUST WASHER	Adjacent wear surface for shim contact
Related Part – 5838300721: AXLE BEVEL GEAR	Gear set adjusted by this shim
Related Part – 5838300633: AXLE	Carrier shaft aligned by shim pack

Compatibility

This shim is engineered for ZF heavy-duty powershift and hydrostatic transmissions used in construction machinery. It is a direct fit for the following transmission families:

• ZF WG180 – 6-speed powershift (common in wheel loaders)
• ZF WG200 – 6-speed with torque converter lock-up
• ZF 4WG-200 – 4-speed version with integrated differential
• ZF 5WG-180 – 5-speed variant for graders and dozers

When replacing this shim, always inspect the mating 2093209023: DIFFERENTIAL unit for scoring. The shim works in conjunction with the 5838300753: THRUST WASHER and 5838300818: THRUST WASHER to maintain proper end-play in the carrier assembly.

Related Components

Part Number	Name	Function
5838109012	DIFFERENTIAL	Torque distribution between wheels
0750117075	TAPER ROLLER BEARING	Supports differential carrier rotation
2093209023	DIFFERENTIAL	Alternate differential assembly variant
5838300626	DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING	Encloses and aligns the differential gears
0631329088	SPRING PIN	Retains shim stack in position
5838300811	THRUST WASHER	Reduces axial friction against shim
5838300721	AXLE BEVEL GEAR	Transfers power from differential to axle shaft
5838300633	AXLE	Driveshaft connecting differential to wheel hub
5838300753	THRUST WASHER	Secondary axial wear surface
5838300818	THRUST WASHER	Tertiary shim support washer

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How do I know if the 0730.109.406 shim is the correct thickness for my rebuild?
A: Always measure the existing shim stack with a micrometer and compare to the service manual specification for your specific ZF transmission model. The 0.40 mm thickness is a common starting point, but final adjustment may require stacking multiple shims to achieve 0.05–0.15 mm of differential bearing preload.

Q: Can I reuse this shim if it looks undamaged?
A: No. ZF shims are designed for single-use installation. Even if the shim appears flat, the case-hardened surface may have micro-cracks from previous loading. Always install a new OEM shim to guarantee proper clamping force and avoid future gear chatter.

Q: What tools are needed to replace the shim in a WG200 transmission?
A: You will need a bearing puller for the taper roller bearing, a dial indicator to measure backlash, and a torque wrench for the differential housing bolts. The 5838300626: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING must be removed to access the shim pocket.