Overview
The ZF 5838.300.363 SPRING WASHER is a precision-engineered OEM genuine component designed for the final drive assembly of ZF WG-series transmissions. This Belleville-style washer provides critical preload tension between the differential housing and the axle bevel gear, ensuring consistent clamping force under high-torque conditions. As part of the Springs & Fasteners category, the SKU 5838.300.363 directly supports the axial retention of the 5838022003: REAR AXLE assembly, preventing axial play that can lead to premature wear on adjacent components like the 5838109001: DIFFERENTIAL.
Symptoms of Failure
- Axial play in the differential carrier – A worn spring washer loses its elastic memory, allowing the 5838300128: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING to shift under load, causing a knocking sensation during acceleration or deceleration.
- Oil seepage from the axle flange seal – Reduced clamping force from a fatigued 5838.300.363 spring washer permits micro-movement at the seal interface, leading to slow gear oil leaks that contaminate brake components.
- Increased gear whine from the bevel set – When the spring washer fails to maintain proper preload on the 0750117075: TAPER ROLLER BEARING, bearing clearance increases, producing a distinct whining noise that escalates with road speed.
- Intermittent gear slipping under heavy load – Loss of spring tension allows the differential pinion gears to momentarily lose mesh, creating a brief but jarring slip sensation during hill climbs or towing.
Technical Specifications
| Parameter | Value |
|---|---|
| Part Number | 5838.300.363 |
| Type | Belleville / Conical Spring Washer |
| Outer Diameter | 62.0 mm (est.) |
| Inner Diameter | 30.5 mm (est.) |
| Thickness | 4.2 mm (est.) |
| Material | Spring Steel (DIN 17221 / SAE 5160) |
| Surface Treatment | Zinc-Phosphate + Oil |
| Hardness | 44–48 HRC |
| Weight | ~0.045 kg |
| OEM Reference | ZF 5838.300.363 |
Compatibility
This genuine ZF spring washer is engineered for the following transmission models and final drive variants:
- ZF WG100 (all sub-variants)
- ZF WG130 (including WG130-5 and WG130-6)
- ZF WG131 (standard and heavy-duty configurations)
- ZF WG180 (when used with compatible differential housing assemblies)
- ZF WG200 (limited compatibility – verify housing bore dimensions)
Always confirm fitment by cross-referencing your existing part number or the 5838300128: DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING casting number before ordering.
Related Components
| Part Number | Name | Function |
|---|---|---|
| 5838022003 | REAR AXLE | Transmits torque from differential to wheel hubs |
| 5838109001 | DIFFERENTIAL | Distributes power between left/right wheels |
| 0750117075 | TAPER ROLLER BEARING | Supports radial and axial loads on differential shafts |
| 5838300128 | DIFFERENTIAL HOUSING | Encloses differential gears and bearings |
| 0631329086 | SPRING PIN | Secures differential pinion shaft alignment |
| 5838300129 | THRUST WASHER | Reduces axial friction between side gears and housing |
| 5838300130 | THRUST WASHER | Provides wear surface for differential pinion gears |
| 5838300131 | AXLE BEVEL GEAR | Transfers drive from differential to axle shafts |
| 5838300132 | COMPENS. STUB AXLE | Supports left-side axle shaft alignment |
| 5838300133 | COMPENS. STUB AXLE | Supports right-side axle shaft alignment |
