Thread: Output shaft end play in ZF auto.

Well unless your checking the Park Brake Sprag ,what are you actually checking Radial / Tangential or axial end play ?All auto output shafts can feel like that due to not much shaft end support ,thats what the tcase is for .

Basically grabbing the output shaft, I can move it a few mm's in any direction. I haven't tested axial movement. I thought there would be a rear bearing in the ZF to prevent any movement. Forgive me for my ignorance in this matter as I'm not familiar with autos etc

Cheers

Generally with 2wd auto boxes the output shaft flops around until the tailshaft is fitted. In and out movement is limited only by a circlip on the shaft as hydraulic pressure in the clutches keeps the shaft against its thrust race. Unless you pull the sump and find metal fragments I would leave your box strictly alone.

Thanks for the info. I was starting to think that I'll have to replace the auto aswell .

Whilst I have the crossmember unbolted I might get a ZF service kit and drain everything and inspect for any metal. A good time to also get a replacement oil seal for the end drive shaft. Mine didn't leak until I started moving the shaft around, but better change it anyways.