Overview
The ZF 4681.298.002 HOUSING REAR SECTION is a critical structural component engineered for the BP 210 and BP 230 series transmissions. This OEM genuine part serves as the terminal enclosure at the output end of the gearbox, housing the output shaft bearing assembly and providing the primary sealing surface for the rear oil seal. As the final point of torque transfer to the driveline, this rear housing section must maintain precise dimensional integrity to ensure correct gear mesh alignment and prevent lubricant egress. The SKU 4681.298.002 is manufactured to ZF’s exacting tolerances, ensuring a direct bolt-on replacement without modification.
Symptoms of Failure
When the ZF 4681.298.002 housing section degrades, operators typically encounter these distinct failure modes:
- Persistent rear oil seal leakage: A worn or cracked housing bore allows the output shaft seal to lose its interference fit, resulting in steady ATF drips from the bellhousing area, often mistaken for a simple seal failure.
- Abnormal output shaft play: Structural fatigue or impact damage to the housing can permit excessive radial or axial movement of the output shaft, leading to driveline vibration and premature universal joint wear.
- Gear noise under load: Distortion of the rear housing mounting face alters the final drive gear alignment, producing a distinct whining or grinding sound during acceleration or deceleration.
- Contaminated transmission fluid: Cracks in the housing casting can allow external debris or moisture ingress, visibly darkening the fluid and reducing its lubricating properties.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | 4681.298.002 |
| Material | High-grade aluminum alloy (A356-T6) |
| Overall Length | 245 mm (9.65 in) |
| Mounting Bolt Pattern | 6x M12 bolts on 180 mm PCD |
| Dry Weight | 4.2 kg (9.26 lbs) |
| Seal Bore Diameter | 85.00 mm ± 0.05 mm |
| OEM Reference | ZF Friedrichshafen AG |
Compatibility
This rear housing section is specifically designed for the BP 210 and BP 230 transmission series. Based on its structural configuration and bolt pattern, it is also compatible with the following ZF models that share the same rear housing architecture:
- ZF WG180 (all sub-variants with BP210/230 rear interface)
- ZF WG200 (late production models)
- ZF 6WG210 (non-retarder versions)
- ZF 6HP210 (select off-highway applications)
Note: Always verify the casting number on your existing housing before ordering. The 4681.298.002 supersedes earlier revisions and is not backward-compatible with pre-2010 BP200 series housings without adapter plates.
