Overview
The ZF 4642.320.029 INTERMEDIATE PLATE is a critical structural component within the WG200 series transmission, serving as the central mounting surface between the main transmission housing and the torque converter assembly. This OEM genuine part ensures precise alignment of planetary gear sets and hydraulic circuits, directly influencing shift quality and power flow. As a load-bearing separator, the intermediate plate must maintain absolute flatness to prevent fluid cross-leakage. The SKU 4642.320.029 is engineered to ZF’s original tolerances, making it a direct replacement for worn units in heavy-duty commercial vehicle transmissions.
Symptoms of Failure
- Internal oil leaks between transmission sections: When the intermediate plate warps or develops micro-fractures, ATF migrates between the pump and gear housing, causing erratic pressure drops and delayed engagement.
- Gear slipping under load: A distorted plate misaligns valve body passages, leading to insufficient clutch pack pressure and noticeable slipping during uphill climbs or heavy hauling.
- Torque converter shudder: Worn locating dowels on the intermediate plate allow the converter hub to wobble, producing a rhythmic vibration at highway speeds.
- Contaminated fluid from metal debris: Cracking in the plate’s webbing releases fine metallic particles into the oil, often misdiagnosed as bearing failure.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 4642.320.029 |
| Material | High-strength aluminum alloy (EN AC-42100) |
| Overall Diameter | 385 mm |
| Thickness | 18.5 mm |
| Weight | 2.8 kg |
| OEM Reference | ZF 4642.320.029 |
| Surface Finish | Anodized, Ra ≤ 0.8 µm |
| Bolt Hole Pattern | 12x M10 on 320 mm PCD |
Compatibility
This intermediate plate is specifically designed for the ZF WG200 series transmission family, including models WG180, WG200, and WG210. It is also compatible with certain ZF Ecomat 4HP and 5HP variants that share the same bolt pattern and oil gallery layout. Always verify the casting number on your existing TRANSMISSION HOUSING (part 4644101216) or TRANSMISSION HOUSING (part 4644301223) to confirm fitment. The plate interfaces directly with the TYPE PLATE (0730365067) for model identification and is secured using the GROOVED STUD (0631311009).
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 4644101216 | TRANSMISSION HOUSING | Main structural casing for gear sets |
| 4644301223 | TRANSMISSION HOUSING | Alternate housing variant for WG200 |
| 0730365067 | TYPE PLATE | Identification tag for transmission model |
| 0631311009 | GROOVED STUD | Alignment dowel for plate positioning |
| 4644303060 | COVER PLATE | Seals the intermediate plate access port |
| 4644303061 | COVER PLATE | Alternate cover with different bolt pattern |
| 0634306525 | O-RING | Hydraulic seal between plate and housing |
| 0636305026 | SCREW PLUG | Closes oil passages during service |
| 4644301279 | SCREEN SHEET | Filter mesh protecting valve body |
| 4644301088 | SEALING CAP | Blocks unused hydraulic ports |
