Overview
The ZF 5838.043.005 REAR AXLE is a critical OEM genuine component engineered for the demanding environment of construction machinery. This part serves as the primary structural and rotational hub within the final drive assembly, transmitting torque from the differential directly to the wheel hubs. As a high-stress load-bearing unit, the SKU 5838.043.005 is precision-machined to maintain exacting tolerances under extreme axial and radial loads. It integrates directly with the 5838109006: DIFFERENTIAL to ensure smooth power distribution, and its housing interfaces with the 2095309059: DIFF.HOUSING for sealed, contaminant-free operation. This genuine ZF axle is the backbone of reliable drivetrain performance in wheel loaders and heavy excavators.
Symptoms of Failure
When the ZF 5838.043.005 rear axle begins to degrade, operators will notice distinct operational issues. Recognizing these failure modes early prevents catastrophic drivetrain damage:
- Excessive Axle End Play & Wheel Wobble: Worn bearing journals or a fatigued axle shaft cause visible lateral movement at the wheel hub, leading to uneven tire wear and steering instability.
- Hypoid Gear Oil Leaks at the Hub Seal: A cracked or worn axle surface damages the oil seal, resulting in steady gear oil seepage from the wheel end, often visible as drips on the tire sidewall.
- Metallic Grinding Noise During Turns: Degraded splines on the axle shaft cause slippage against the differential side gears, producing a distinct metallic chatter when the machine articulates under load.
- Vibration at Low Speeds Under Load: A bent or twisted axle shaft creates a low-frequency vibration that is most pronounced during forward/reverse directional shifts at low RPM.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| OEM Part Number | 5838.043.005 |
| Overall Length (approx.) | 785 mm |
| Shaft Diameter (bearing seat) | 75 mm |
| Spline Count | 24 (involute) |
| Material | Case-hardened alloy steel (20MnCr5) |
| Weight | 22.4 kg |
| OEM Reference | ZF 5838.043.005 |
Compatibility
This genuine ZF rear axle is specifically designed for use in the WG180 and WG200 series power shift transmissions, which are commonly found in mid-to-large construction machinery. It is a direct fit for ZF drivelines utilizing a planetary final drive configuration. The 5838.043.005 axle works in concert with the 2095209037: DIFFERENTIAL assembly and requires proper preload from the 0750117075: TAPER ROLLER BEARING for correct installation. Typical applications include ZF APL-300 series axles and certain TC-Track models used in articulated dump trucks.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 5838109006 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes torque between left and right axles |
| 0750117075 | TAPER ROLLER BEARING | Supports axial and radial loads on the axle shaft |
| 2095209037 | DIFFERENTIAL | Alternative differential assembly for high-torque variants |
| 2095309059 | DIFF.HOUSING | Encloses the differential and axle shaft ends |
| 0631329086 | SPRING PIN | Secures differential gears to the cross shaft |
| 0730300820 | THRUST WASHER | Reduces friction between side gears and housing |
| 4482360002 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Transfers power from pinion to ring gear |
| 2095309081 | DIFFERENTIAL AXLE | Cross shaft for differential spider gears |
| 5838300811 | THRUST WASHER | Axial spacer for differential pinion gears |
| 4482360001 | DIFFERENTIAL BEVEL GEAR | Side gear engaging with axle shaft splines |
