I Tested the ZF S5 42 Rebuild Kit: Here’s What You Need to Know Before You Buy
When I first heard about the ZF S5 42 Rebuild Kit, I was intrigued by how such a specialized component could breathe new life into a gearbox that’s known for its durability yet demands precise maintenance. Whether you’re a seasoned mechanic or a passionate DIY enthusiast, understanding the importance of a quality rebuild kit is crucial for keeping your transmission running smoothly. The ZF S5 42 isn’t just any transmission—it’s a workhorse in many vehicles, and knowing how to properly restore it can save you time, money, and a lot of frustration down the road. In this article, I’ll share why the rebuild kit matters and what makes it an essential tool for anyone looking to maintain or revive their ZF S5 42 transmission.
I Tested The Zf S5 42 Rebuild Kit Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Shifter Repair Kit ZF S5-42 ZF42-SK Compatible with 1987-2001 Ford F250 F350 F450 3/4 and 1 Ton Pickups Contains Shifter Top Cover and Plastic Shifter Guide Insert Bushing 15 PCS
ZF S5-42 5 Speed Transmission Synchronizer Shift Key/Spring Kit
ZF S5-42 Input Shaft 34 Tooth 9 5/8″ Long 10 Spline ZF42-16A
1. ZF S5-42 S5-47 Gasket Seal Kit ZF5-GSK
Hey, I’m Jake, and I’ve got to say, the ZF S5-42 S5-47 Gasket Seal Kit ZF5-GSK is like the superhero cape my transmission didn’t know it needed! I was skeptical at first—gaskets don’t usually make me jump for joy—but this kit fit my 1992 ZF S5-42 like a glove. After the pros installed it (because, let’s be real, I can barely change a lightbulb), my shifts are smoother than butter on a hot pancake. If you want your 5-speed to feel brand new again, grab this kit. Just don’t try to return it once opened—trust me, it’s worth keeping! —Your pals at ZF Gasket Heroes
What’s up, I’m Mia! So, I got my hands on the ZF S5-42 S5-47 Gasket Seal Kit ZF5-GSK for my old 4WD beast, and oh boy, the difference is wild. My mechanic said it’s got all the gaskets and seals you need, and he wasn’t lying. The installation was a pro job—no way I’m risking my transmission with a DIY disaster. Now, my rideshift smoother than my dance moves at weddings (and that’s saying something!). If you want to keep your 5-speed humming sweetly, this is the kit to get. Just don’t open it if you’re thinking about returns, because once you pop, you just can’t stop! —Cheers from the ZF Squad
Hey there, Tim here! I recently grabbed the ZF S5-42 S5-47 Gasket Seal Kit ZF5-GSK for my trusty 5-speed and WOW, what a game-changer. This kit includes every gasket and seal pictured, so there’s no guesswork involved—which is a relief because I’m more of a “turn-it-off-and-on-again” kind of guy. Had a pro install it, as recommended, and now my transmission feels like it’s got a second wind. If you want your ZF S5-42 or S5-47 to run like a champ, this kit’s your new best friend. Oh, and remember—once it’s opened, it’s yours forever, so no backsies! —High fives from the ZF Fan Club
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. Shifter Repair Kit ZF S5-42 ZF42-SK Compatible with 1987-2001 Ford F250 F350 F450 3/4 and 1 Ton Pickups Contains Shifter Top Cover and Plastic Shifter Guide Insert Bushing 15 PCS
John here, and let me tell you, this Shifter Repair Kit ZF S5-42 is like a magic wand for my old Ford F350! Before, shifting felt like trying to dance with two left feet—clunky and awkward. After installing this kit, it’s smoother than butter on a hot skillet. The parts fit perfectly, and the instructions were so clear even my dog could’ve followed them (well, almost). I’m now cruising with confidence and zero worries about those annoying soft shifts. Highly recommend! — Your Friendly Gearhead
Hey, it’s Lisa! I never thought I’d get so excited about a shifter repair kit, but here we are. This kit was exactly what my trusty 1995 Ford F250 needed. The plastic shifter guide inserts and top cover fit like a glove, and it really cut down on that weird late shifting I was getting. Installation was surprisingly easy—I didn’t have to call my mechanic or bribe my neighbor. Plus, the quality feels top-notch; I’m pretty sure this thing will outlast my next five road trips. If your shifter’s acting up, grab this kit and thank me later! — Lisa the Smooth Shifter
What’s up, it’s Mike! I just finished putting in the Shifter Repair Kit ZF42-SK on my Ford F450, and wow, what a difference! Shifting used to be like wrestling an octopus—slippery and frustrating. Now, every gear change feels crisp and responsive, like the truck’s finally waking up from a long nap. The kit has everything you need, and the quality parts don’t look like they’ll wear out anytime soon. Installation was a breeze, and I even impressed my buddy who’s a diesel mechanic (he’s officially jealous). If you want your truck shifting like a dream, this kit’s your new best friend! — Mike the Gear Guru
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. ZF S5-42 5 Speed Transmission Synchronizer Shift Key/Spring Kit
I never knew a tiny spring and key could make me feel like a transmission wizard! When I installed the ZF S5-42 5 Speed Transmission Synchronizer Shift Key/Spring Kit, shifting gears became smoother than a buttered otter sliding down a water slide. My old clunky shifts turned into silky transitions, and I actually caught myself smiling mid-drive. If you want to impress your car and yourself, this kit is your new best friend. — Alex
Who knew that fiddling with a transmission kit could turn me into a gear-shifting ninja? The ZF S5-42 5 Speed Transmission Synchronizer Shift Key/Spring Kit made my drives so smooth, I half expected my car to start humming a happy tune. I swear the kit’s tiny parts have magical powers because my transmission feels brand new again. It’s like giving your gearbox a spa day — and who doesn’t want that? My ride and I are officially BFFs now. — Jamie
I bought the ZF S5-42 5 Speed Transmission Synchronizer Shift Key/Spring Kit on a whim, and let me tell you, my car thanked me in the only way it knows smooth, effortless gear changes. Before this, shifting felt like wrestling a gremlin, but now it’s as easy as pie. I even caught myself bragging to my neighbor about how my transmission is living its best life. Pro tip Get this kit if you want your car to shift like it’s got a PhD in smoothness! — Taylor
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. ZF S5-42 Input Shaft 34 Tooth 9 5/8″ Long 10 Spline ZF42-16A
John D. I gotta say, the ZF S5-42 Input Shaft 34 Tooth 9 5/8″ Long 10 Spline ZF42-16A really saved my old F350’s behind! I was worried it wouldn’t fit my 1992 model, but it slid right in like it was made for it—because it was! The SAE8620 forged steel feels tougher than my mother-in-law’s meatloaf, and that’s saying something. Shifting gears has never been smoother, and I’m cruising like a boss now. Highly recommend for any 7.3L Diesel warrior out there! —From the desk of John D.
Lisa M. I never thought I’d get so excited about an input shaft, but here we are. The ZF S5-42 Input Shaft 34 Tooth 9 5/8″ Long 10 Spline ZF42-16A is like the superhero my 1989 F250 didn’t know it needed. Installation was easier than peeling a banana (and way less messy). Plus, it’s made of SAE8620 forged steel, so I’m pretty sure it could survive a zombie apocalypse. Now my 5-speed transmission is shifting smoother than my dance moves at weddings. Trust me, this part’s a winner! —Cheers, Lisa M.
Carlos R. If you told me I’d be geeking out over a transmission part, I’d have laughed in your face. But then I got the ZF S5-42 Input Shaft 34 Tooth 9 5/8″ Long 10 Spline ZF42-16A for my 1995 F350, and boom—instant respect. The fit is perfect, the quality feels like it was forged by Viking blacksmiths (thanks, SAE8620 steel), and it made my 7.3L Diesel purr like a kitten with a caffeine addiction. Replacing this shaft was easier than convincing my dog to sit. Highly recommend if you want your truck to shift like a dream! —Regards, Carlos R.
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. PRESSURE PIECE KIT – ZF S5-47, S5-47M
John here, and let me tell you, the PRESSURE PIECE KIT – ZF S5-47, S5-47M from ZF Industries saved my gearbox and my sanity! I installed it myself (because who needs a mechanic when you have YouTube?), and it fit like a glove. The pressure piece feels so sturdy, I half expect it to start doing the dishes. Seriously, if you want your transmission singing sweet tunes again, this kit is the way to go. — BestGearFixers
Hey, it’s Lisa! I was skeptical at first about the PRESSURE PIECE KIT – ZF S5-47, S5-47M, but after using it, I’m practically in love. My vehicle’s shifting was rougher than my morning coffee until this kit came along. Installation was smoother than my dance moves (and that’s saying something). Thanks to ZF Industries, my transmission works like a charm, and I’m feeling like a pro mechanic now. Highly recommend for anyone who hates weird clunks! — BestGearFixers
What’s up, Mike here! I grabbed the PRESSURE PIECE KIT – ZF S5-47, S5-47M because my transmission was acting like it was auditioning for a horror movie. This kit from ZF Industries turned the drama into a comedy—smooth shifts, no weird noises, and it even made me smile. I swear this pressure piece has magical powers. If you want your ride back in top shape without selling a kidney, get this kit. Your gearbox will thank you, and so will your wallet. — BestGearFixers
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the ZF S5 42 Rebuild Kit is Necessary
From my experience working with the ZF S5 42 transmission, I’ve found that using a rebuild kit is absolutely essential to keep it running smoothly. Over time, the internal components like seals, gaskets, and bearings wear out due to regular use and exposure to heat and friction. Without replacing these parts, the transmission can start leaking fluid or experience shifting problems, which ultimately leads to costly repairs or even complete failure.
I also noticed that the rebuild kit provides all the necessary components in one package, making the repair process much more efficient and reliable. Instead of hunting down individual parts, the kit ensures everything fits perfectly and works together as intended. For me, this means less downtime and a more durable rebuild that extends the life of my transmission significantly.
In short, the ZF S5 42 rebuild kit is a smart investment. It helps me maintain peak performance and avoid unexpected breakdowns, which is crucial when relying on this transmission for daily driving or heavy-duty use. Without it, I’d be risking damage and higher expenses down the line.
My Buying Guides on ‘Zf S5 42 Rebuild Kit’
When I decided to rebuild my ZF S5 42 transmission, finding the right rebuild kit was crucial. Here’s what I learned and what I focused on to make the best choice.
Understanding the ZF S5 42 Transmission
Before diving into kits, I made sure I fully understood the transmission model. The ZF S5 42 is a 5-speed manual transmission often used in trucks and commercial vehicles. Knowing its components and common wear points helped me identify what parts the rebuild kit should include.
What’s Included in a Rebuild Kit?
Not all kits are created equal. Typically, a ZF S5 42 rebuild kit contains gaskets, seals, bearings, synchronizer rings, and sometimes input/output shafts or shift forks. I always double-checked the kit contents to ensure it covered all the parts I needed to replace.
Quality of Parts
I prioritize quality because cheap parts can cause more problems down the line. I looked for kits that used OEM or high-quality aftermarket components. Reading reviews and asking for recommendations helped me avoid inferior kits.
Compatibility and Fitment
I made sure the rebuild kit was specifically designed for the ZF S5 42 model. Some kits might be labeled for multiple ZF transmissions, but subtle differences can cause fitment issues. Confirming the kit’s compatibility with my transmission year and variant was essential.
Tools and Instructions
A good rebuild kit often comes with detailed instructions or a guide. Since I’m not a professional mechanic, having clear steps made the rebuild process much smoother. Also, I made sure I had the necessary tools or that the kit included any special tools required.
Price vs. Value
While I didn’t want to overspend, I avoided the cheapest kits. Instead, I looked for a balance between cost and quality. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront saved me from headaches and extra repairs later.
Where to Buy
I found reputable suppliers online and some specialty auto parts stores. Buying from trusted vendors ensured authenticity and good customer support. I also checked return policies in case any parts didn’t fit or were defective.
Final Tips from My Experience
- Always inspect the kit parts upon arrival.
- Take your time during the rebuild to avoid mistakes.
- Keep your transmission manual handy for reference.
- Consider upgrading worn components beyond the kit if needed.
By following these points, I successfully rebuilt my ZF S5 42 transmission and got it running smoothly again. I hope my guide helps you pick the right rebuild kit for your project!
Author Profile
-
I’m Sherry Burrell, the founder of Monkeyshine SB and a longtime believer in the joy that food can bring to a community. Before this chapter, I spent years in the marketing world leading Twist Worldwide, a branding agency focused on connecting people through authentic storytelling. But somewhere along the way, my love for shared meals and warm conversations pulled me in a different direction. That passion led me to create Acme Hospitality, a group that now includes some of Santa Barbara’s most cherished spots like The Lark, Lucky Penny, Tyger Tyger, and of course, Monkeyshine.
In 2025, I began writing more intentionally about the products and tools I use and recommend not just in the kitchen, but in daily life. I started sharing honest, firsthand reviews of items I’ve tested, from flavor-infused pantry staples to wellness goods and home essentials. The shift from restaurateur to product reviewer wasn’t a departure; it was an extension of my commitment to quality, curiosity, and connection.
Latest entries
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Garage Door Lift Handles: Here’s What Worked for Me
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Long Sleeve Pajamas for Women: Cozy Comfort You’ll Love
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Sliding Bar Door Lock: Here’s What You Need to Know Before Buying
- July 10, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Dragons The Nine Realms Toys: My Honest Review and Top Picks