In late 1987, Ford introduced the 5speed ZF transmission in the F250, F350, &
F450 trucks. They were available for gas as well as diesel models. The easiest
way to identify the unit is to see that it has power take off (pto) opening
plates on the lower sides of the unit. ZF transmissions are reliable units that
should provide good service when taken care of properly. Keep in mind that the
ZF has 6 constant mesh mainshaft gears, so there is a considerable amount of
potential for heat buildup. It is never a good idea to leave the truck idling
with a pto engaged, such as in tow truck applications. The unit was redesigned
in '96 and had small, but significant changes. The synchro teeth were enlarged
to provide longer life and more positive shifts, and the bearing retainer was
designed to be replaced without having to disassemble the case. The case was
beefed up also with this design.
These units are prone to be a little noisy, and noise issues
comprise most of the complaints we hear. Please
do not remove your transmission if noise is a
problem. Check all the components of your drivetrain carefully first. Things
like injectors, dual mass flywheels, or even differential problems can cause a
noise to come through the unit. Before we tear a unit down with a noise
complaint, we make sure that we have done our best to eliminate the possibility
of something else as a the source of the noise.
The ZF6 is a heavy-duty, fully-synchronized,
constant-mesh 6-speed manual transmission.
There are a few variances of the ZF6
Ford has been using the ZF6 since the late 1990s. Ford's
configuration uses a unique internal oil pump to pump lubricating oil to an
external oil cooler, much like that of an automatic transmission, to dissipate
the heat generated during heavy-duty use or towing. It also uses a different
input bearing. The Ford ZF5 and ZF6 line uses a tapered input bearing for added
strength.
General Motors used the ZF6 transmission in the 1989-1996 Corvette.
They started using them again in 2001 mated to their 8100 Vortec and the Isuzu
Duramax engines. GM modified theirs to accommodate for the complaints Ford had
with theirs. A large complaint was the noise produced. They added a bushing to
metal rail socket for the shifter stub. They gave the shifter a "longer" throw
for a more firm feel. They also added more angle to the helical gearsets to aid
in reducing noise. GM models do not use an external oil cooler. Instead, they
opted for allowing the transmission to operate at a higher temperature, then
specified the use of synthetic oil, which will tolerate higher temperatures than
conventional oil and is expected to last the life of the vehicle without oil
changes.
If you have determined that a transmission is needed, we can help. We can
rebuild your unit or sell you a reman from our stock. To get the right
transmission, we will need
ALL
the numbers from the tag on the side. If the tag is missing, we will need all
vehicle info including VIN to get you the right unit. The core MUST be
completely assembled & have the shifter stub still on it. Shipping & handling
can be quoted with a zip code and is normally about $175.00 in the 48 states.
We also sell a wide range of parts for the ZF, so if you decide to
tackle one of these beasts yourself, let us have the parts list & we'll get
right on a quote for you. If you need more info, call us at 1.800.783.8726, or
email us.
We
can usually rebuild your transmission for less than exchanging it. All of our
new and rebuilt transmissions carry a 12mo/12,000 mile warranty. Send us your
transmission, transfer case, or differential & we'll disassemble, clean &
inspect it. Next, we'll contact you with an exact price to repair the unit,
including all parts and labor. After you approve the work, we can usually
complete the repairs in 1-2 business days.
Remember, we can ship anywhere you need us to - usually on the same day! We
accept: Mastercard, Visa, & Discover. We ship via UPS, motor freight, U.S.
Postal Service, overnight, 2 day, 3 day, or regular freight, depending on your
needs. International Shipping is quoted to nearest airport. Customer is
responsible for all duties, etc. that may be imposed in your country.
We
can usually rebuild your transmission for less than exchanging it. All of our
new and rebuilt transmissions carry a 12mo/12,000 mile warranty. Send us your
transmission, transfer case, or differential & we'll disassemble, clean &
inspect it. Next, we'll contact you with an exact price to repair the unit,
including all parts and labor. After you approve the work, we can usually
complete the repairs in 1-2 business days.
