5speed zf gearbox spare parts

[mauro12]

Hi guys, i would like to know if there are some general spare parts for the 5speed zf gearbox . I've never touched anything apart from a resealing and oil replacment . Since i brought the car to a different mechanic for general maintenance , he told me that the gearbox is quite noisy . Honestly i do not hear any strange noise , maybe only in 4 gear at low rpm . Anyway , he told me that the sincro are ok but maybe some internal bearings are worn out . Are the bearings for the zf, typical only for this particular gearbox or can be taken from any common gearbox ? Maybe any additive can improve the noise ? Thank you for your help.
Mauro

[Cees Klumper]

I don't know anything about this manual gearbox type, but I have learned over the years that most/many bearings are of a standard type, meaning that in many cases you can source replacement bearings based on the type of bearing and the exact dimensions. I don't know whether that is the case here, so hopefully with actual knowledge of your ZF gearbox will chime in.

[mauro12]

I’ve read the same thing . Bearings should be standard. This question is maybe for those who have the 5speed like dr Benz and many others in the forum .

[Benz Dr.]

I had mine apart about 20 years ago when spare parts were not even available. When ZF reissued the box some spare parts became available, and I quickly ordered a reverse light switch, which is a ZF part. Even 4 speed MB boxes have no reverse switches available today but you can get one for a ZF.

Back to bearings: These are parts you can get but it becomes a bit more complicated than this. Most of these bearings are tapered roller type and end play has to be set to exact dimensions. Then they press fit the bearings on to the shafts which means you have to figure out a way to remove them without damaging anything else. Not an easy unit to work on. The MB 4 speed box is a dream by comparison.   

[mauro12]

Thank you Dan . I will not touch anything unless is very damaged . Honestly I’m afraid to have the gearbox in pieces to look for a small noise . I will keep full with fluid or put some additive on it . The most difficult part to obtein is the gears I believe .