Overview
The ZF 5838.117.022 REAR AXLE HOUSING is a critical structural component within heavy-duty construction machinery drivelines. This OEM genuine part encloses the final drive gearing and differential assembly, providing the rigid mounting points necessary to transfer torque from the transmission to the wheel ends. As the primary load-bearing shell, the housing protects internal gears from contamination while maintaining precise alignment under extreme stress. The SKU 5838.117.022 is specifically engineered for ZF’s modular axle systems, ensuring a sealed environment for lubricants and supporting the entire axle weight during operation.
Symptoms of Failure
- Visible oil seepage around axle seals: A cracked or warped housing often causes lubricant to escape past the DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING mating surfaces, leading to low oil levels and accelerated gear wear.
- Abnormal whining or grinding from the rear axle: When the housing loses structural integrity, the DIFFERENTIAL and TAPER ROLLER BEARING alignment shifts, creating metal-on-metal contact during load cycles.
- Unexplained vibration during turning maneuvers: A deformed housing misaligns the DIFFERENTIAL carrier, causing uneven tire wear and harsh driveline shudder under torque.
- Metal debris in differential fluid: Cracks in the housing allow contaminants to enter, while internal fractures shed material that circulates through the gearset.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 5838.117.022 |
| Material | Ductile Cast Iron (GJS-500-7) |
| Weight | 38.5 kg (84.9 lbs) |
| Overall Length | 620 mm |
| Mounting Bolt Pattern | 12 x M16 on 180 mm PCD |
| OEM Reference | ZF 5838.117.022 |
| Max Operating Temperature | 120°C (248°F) |
Compatibility
This rear axle housing is designed for ZF’s heavy-duty transmission families used in construction machinery. It directly fits the WG180 and WG200 series, as well as the ECCOM 5-speed models with integrated drop boxes. The housing also supports the 4WG-200 and 6WG-200 variants found in wheel loaders and graders. Always verify the axle ratio and differential carrier type before installation, as the housing interfaces with specific AXLE BEVEL GEAR sets.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 5838109010 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes torque between left and right wheels |
| 0750117075 | TAPER ROLLER BEARING | Supports differential carrier rotation |
| 2093209023 | DIFFERENTIAL | High-capacity unit for WG200 axles |
| 5838300626 | DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING | Encloses differential gear set |
| 0631329088 | SPRING PIN | Secures differential bearing caps |
| 5838300811 | THRUST WASHER | Controls axial play in differential |
| 5838300721 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Transfers power to wheel hubs |
| 5838300633 | AXLE | Output shaft to wheel end |
| 5838300753 | THRUST WASHER | Side gear clearance shim |
| 5838300818 | THRUST WASHER | Pinion gear thrust surface |
