Overview
The ZF 2098.117.014 REAR AXLE HOUSING is a structural core component within heavy-duty construction machinery drivelines. This OEM genuine part encases the final drive gearing and differential assembly, providing the rigid mounting point for axle shafts and wheel hubs. As the primary load-bearing shell, it transfers torque from the transmission to the wheels while withstanding extreme stress from rough terrain and heavy payloads. The SKU 2098.117.014 is precision-machined to ZF’s factory tolerances, ensuring proper alignment of internal gears and bearings. Without this housing, the rear axle assembly lacks structural integrity, making it critical for maintaining gear mesh and preventing contamination from debris.
Symptoms of Failure
- Oil seepage from axle tube welds: Cracks or porosity in the housing cause differential oil to weep onto brake components, leading to reduced braking efficiency and visible puddles under parked equipment.
- Abnormal whining or grinding during turns: A warped or cracked housing misaligns the DIFFERENTIAL carrier, creating uneven gear contact that produces a rhythmic metallic noise under load.
- Excessive wheel bearing play: Distortion of the housing bores allows the BALL BEARING seats to loosen, causing lateral movement in the hub that accelerates tire wear.
- Contaminated lubricant: Impact damage or corrosion breaches the housing, allowing water and grit to enter the axle, which turns the oil milky or gritty.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | 2098.117.014 |
| Material | Ductile cast iron (GJS-500-7) |
| Dry Weight | 38.5 kg (84.9 lbs) |
| Overall Length | 720 mm |
| Mounting Bolt Pattern | 12 x M16 on 180 mm PCD |
| Axle Tube Diameter | 120 mm |
| Surface Treatment | Black oxide coating |
| Compatible Differential | 2098109041 |
Compatibility
This rear axle housing is engineered for ZF’s WG-series powershift transmissions commonly found in wheel loaders and telehandlers. It directly fits the WG180 and WG200 transmission models, which require a robust housing to handle torque outputs up to 2,500 Nm. The part also integrates with the WG150 series in certain compact construction machines. When replacing the housing, technicians often inspect the P.T.O. SHAFT (2098110053) for spline wear and the P.T.O. SHAFT (2098310099) for bearing surface damage, as these shafts pass through the housing’s forward bore.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 2098109041 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes torque between left and right wheels |
| 2098110053 | P.T.O. SHAFT | Transfers power to auxiliary hydraulic pumps |
| 2098310099 | P.T.O. SHAFT | Drives secondary output for front axle engagement |
| 0635332034 | BALL BEARING | Supports rotating shafts within the housing |
| 0630503010 | SNAP RING | Secures bearings in housing grooves |
| 11882200632 | THRUST WASHER | Controls axial clearance of differential gears |
| 2098310037 | BEARING COVER | Seals the housing’s bearing access port |
| 0630531050 | RETAINING RING | Locks P.T.O. shaft assemblies in place |
| 0636100416 | HEXAGON SCREW | Fastens housing halves and covers |
| 5840333258 | SHAFT SEAL | Prevents oil leakage at shaft exit points |
