For those of you interested in doing a ZF rebuild or those looking for parts/kits to give to the shop/guy doing the work: Beware. Yes, you can order one from ebay for about $175, but what you'll find is Chinese bearings that will last, so I'm told, about 1 year. Or, you can pay more and get the kit with Koyo bearings, which are good, but the kit has Korean syncro rings, which are questionable, and one buyer said they fell apart when he shifted. Ouch.

I am looking at having a ZF rebuilt and want it to last, so I've been doing research with the help of 89-96 forum. What I have found is that two suppliers are well known by members as having quality kits/parts. Following is what I found out from one of the outfits, General Truck Parts in Chicago. Good luck.

Tuesday, January 5th, 2016

*I want to post some info for those who are searching for ZF kit info in the future.

This morning I was able to call GTP in Chicago. I'm happy I did. I found that they sell zero aftermarket parts or kits. All their stuff for the ZF is made by ZF in Germany. That left nothing to be said. I will still call Midwest tomorrow and see what the difference is and compare quality, but I'm certain no one will top ZF for quality. However, If, say, I find a kit with Koyo or Timken bearings for considerable less, then I may go that way, but I doubt it.

GTP rebuild kit #1307 (large kit) with seals, gaskets, bearings, needle bearings, but w/o syncros $250

The syncro kits are interesting. Either you can buy an entire kit of the syncro rings (1307-sk) for $225, or three separate assemblies of the syncros with springs and contacts, for $175 each. They come with first and second gear assembly, third and fourth gear assembly, and fifth and reverse assemble, each for $175. I need to look at diagram to understand what the springs and 'contacts' are. I'm sure GTP did not say 'contacts,' but I can't remember the term/name he used.

Tomorrow I'll post the info I get from Midwest. k

 

I spoke to Midwest Trans and was told they use bearings from all over, and even some Chinese bearings. I've been told those fail in about a year. I was also told they sell only the brass syncro rings. One member said they are nothing but problems and fail in one year.

So, for those looking for quality ZF parts, made in Germany, or others who simply want their build to last, go with General Truck Parts, in Chicago. They sell only ZF made parts, for not that much more expensive than the cheap Chinese stuff.

Good luck. k