Overview
The ZF 2098.117.021 REAR AXLE HOUS. is a structural core component within heavy-duty construction machinery drivelines, specifically engineered to encase and protect the differential and final drive gearsets. This OEM genuine housing absorbs extreme torsional loads and maintains precise alignment for the axle assembly. As the primary load-bearing shell, it directly interfaces with the suspension and wheel ends. The SKU 2098.117.021 is critical for maintaining the integrity of the entire rear axle system, preventing contamination and ensuring consistent power transfer from the transmission to the wheels.
Symptoms of Failure
When the ZF 2098.117.021 rear axle housing begins to fail, operators typically notice these specific issues:
- Visible oil seepage at axle tube seams: Cracks or porosity in the housing casting lead to gear oil weeping, often mistaken for a simple seal leak.
- Abnormal whining or grinding from the rear axle: A warped or cracked housing allows the CROWN WHEEL and pinion to lose proper mesh, generating a cyclical, low-frequency groan under load.
- Wheel end misalignment and uneven tire wear: Structural fatigue in the housing causes the axle shafts to sit out of true, resulting in rapid, scalloped tire wear on construction machinery.
- Contaminated differential fluid: A fractured housing allows water and debris ingress, which accelerates wear on the DIFFERENTIAL internal components.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | 2098.117.021 |
| Material | High-tensile nodular cast iron (GGG-50) |
| Dry Weight | 48.5 kg (107 lbs) |
| Overall Length | 1,820 mm |
| Mounting Bolt Pattern | 12 x M16 on 180mm PCD |
| Axle Tube Outer Diameter | 120 mm |
| Oil Capacity (Housing Only) | 8.5 liters |
Compatibility
This rear axle housing is designed for ZF’s heavy-duty off-highway transmission series. It is a direct fit for the WG180 and WG200 power divider assemblies. It also integrates with the WG160 series in certain loader and grader applications. The housing is machined to accept the DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING and the DIFFERENTIAL carrier assembly. Always verify the axle ratio and housing flange pattern before installation, as variations exist between WG180 and WG200 models.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 2098109042 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes torque between left and right wheels |
| 2098309011 | CROWN WHEEL | Transfers drive from pinion to differential |
| 2099209001 | DIFFERENTIAL | Complete differential unit for final drive |
| 2098309010 | DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING | Carrier housing for differential gears |
| 2098309009 | DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING | Alternative carrier housing variant |
| 2098309031 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Input bevel gear for axle drive |
| 2098309030 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Output bevel gear for axle drive |
| 2098309032 | DIFFERENTIAL BEVEL GEAR | Internal differential bevel gear set |
| 12883200682 | THRUST WASHER | Axial load bearing for differential gears |
| 0635332059 | BALL BEARING | Support bearing for axle shaft |
